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Demonstrating the Phases of the Moon The phases of the Moon can be demonstrated with a simple model using plain white masks. In this activity, four student volunteers wearing masks position themselves in a diamond pattern all facing the same direction. The masks represent the face of the Moon illuminated by the Sun. The four masked students represent the Moon at four different positions in the Moon’s orbit around the Earth. Then another student that represents the Earth is positioned in the middle of the other four and can spin to view the Moon in its different positions. The student representing the Earth can observe the different lunar phases (new moon, first quarter, full moon, and third quarter) by seeing only a portion of each mask from their perspective. In this model, it is important for students to understand that the same side of the Moon is always facing the Earth. The masks only represent the portion of the Moon that is illuminated by Sun. This is a model to illustrate the phases of the Moon. It is useful to have students evaluate the accuracy of the model and to point out possible inaccuracies or problems with the model. In addition, it is a valuable opportunities for students to propose improvements in the model. For example, students need to understand that the masks only represent the illuminated portion of the Moon and that the same side of the Moon is always facing the Earth.