Observing and documenting the phases of the Moon is a very educational and authentic experience that can (and should) definitely be incorporated in the upper elementary grades. In comparing the way our class assignment was completed, I would recommend some modifications.
I do not think that it is probably feasible to expect students to be able to take an actual picture each day. Some students may not have access to digital cameras and scanners to incorporate photographs or sketches on the computer. Some students may not have access to a computer outside of school. I think that it is reasonable to expect that students create a personal Moon Calendar. Students could sketch their individual observations on index cards noting the date and time. These index cards could then be placed on poster board that is formatted as a calendar. I would incorporate a writing component into the assignment asking students to write about their observations and what they learned from watching the Moon over a lunar cycle. Students could present these calendars and then, as a class, use paper plates to sketch the Moon and display in the classroom.
Parents would certainly need to be involved and aware of this assignment. Because of the variations in Moon rise and Moon set times, parents must know what the expectations are. Students may not always be able to view the Moon directly from their house and may need parents to accompany them to locations where they can see the Moon. This could be a great shared learning opportunity for children and parents. Some parents may not be aware of the Moon’s phases and could learn alongside their child. What a powerful home-school connection! I would communicate with parents via e-mail, newsletter, and have a detailed handout that was sent home (which included a copy of the expected Moon rise and Moon set times for the remainder of the month) outlining all of the required elements of the assignment so that they are not caught off guard. I would make sure to be organized and have all of this ready about a week in advance to allow time for parents to contact me with any questions.
Unfortunately, some students may have very limited parental involvement. I do not think that students should be penalized for this assignment because parents may not be available (for whatever reason) to assist in the project. As much as possible, the students should attempt to actually view the Moon, but given the unlimited amount of information on the Internet about the lunar cycle, making observations via the Internet a viable alternative.
