The teacher will continually walk around and assist students with the activity. The teacher will be checking for understanding and making sure that each student is on track with their moon phases during the activity. The teacher will informally assess each student as she walks around and a formative assessment will be noted upon the completion of the activity. Students will be given a check plus for completing the activity to the best of their ability, a check for work that is complete, but not to the best of their ability, and a check minus for work that is below their working ability.
 
Accountability:
Each student is responsible for modeling the phases of the moon using cookie cream. The phases should closely resemble the phases of the moon, as noted on the bottom of the moon phase’s plate.
Differentiation:
Below Level:
The teacher will make rounds during the activity to assist all students. Below level learners will be completing an activity that is modeling and using direct, applicable manipulative. The teacher will also offer assistance in placing the moon phase names with struggling learners.
 
Above Level:
Above level learners will be challenged with the placement of the earth. Above level learners will need to place their Sun in the correct location without teacher assistance. Above level learners will also be challenged with the placement of the moon phase names under their cookie cream moon phases.