Each student has been given a "moon journal" to use to make nightly observations about the moon as it moves through the phases of full moon to full moon.  Below is a  copy of the letter inside each journal that helps explain what I want each student to do.  Using the observations, we will be writing, listening to music, and using art to extend our learning.  As we complete activities, I will post them here on our website.  Please remind your child each night to do their moon journal. 

 

Dear Moon Journal Writer,

              In your Moon Journal you will observe the night sky every night for one month, from full moon to full moon.  As you write, record this information:

 

·         Be sure to record the date and time of your observations.

·         Even though the moon is the “star” of your journal, pay attention to other nighttime wonders.  Let your eyes adjust to the darkness and then—look up!  What do you see?  Are there clouds?  Is it a foggy or misty or cloudy night?  Is the wind blowing?  Is the sky dark or filled with moonlight?  Do you see constellations or planets?  Shooting stars?  Describe what you see.

·         What do you hear?  Crickets?  Birds?  Animals?  Raindrops or wind?  Cars or airplanes?  Describe what you hear.

·         Do you smell flowers, trees, or the smoky scent of a fire?  Describe what you smell.

·         What does the moon look like?  What shape is it?  What time does it appear in the sky?  What position is it in?  What stars are near it?  Describe what you see.

·         Does it change from night to night?  How?  What does it remind you of?  A banana?  A silver dollar?  Jot down an observation.

·         What were you doing when you discovered the moon?  What were you thinking?  How did it make you feel?  There are many ways to record your impressions:  scientific observations, poems, questions, diary entries, legends—the choice is yours.

·         Words will help you describe many of the things you see, but pictures will allow you to add color and mood to your journal entries.  Looking carefully at the sky will guide you in choosing the right art materials to use:  watercolors, chalk or oil pastels, crayons, colored pencils, collage papers, cotton balls, foil, tissue papers, or tempera paints.  Look around your house and the classroom until you discover interesting ways to represent you impressions.  Be creative!  You might want to start with a simple sketch and then experiment with different media until you find satisfying ways to illustrate your observation. 

·         Just as important as your words and pictures are the questions that come to mind when you make your observations.  Be sure to record things you want to know.  Your questions will help all of us learn about the moon, the night sky, and—who knows what else? 

 

*     If the moon has not risen when you make your observation, tell me about what else is happening around you.  Observe your world and record.

 

Daily class time will be reserved to share your entries, learn new techniques from your friends and your teacher, and revise your art and writing pieces.  Your journal is a place for discoveries, a place to watch and wait for surprises.  Look up at the stars, focus your eyes on the moon, and let your journey begin!

 

Mrs. Lightner