When teaching Moon phases, the focus seems to be on the sequence of Moon phases and, in some grade levels, how Moon phases occur. Either focus can sometimes be a challenge, especially without the use of models and observations of the Moon. In this month's column, the author describes some of the lessons that he uses to teach the phases of the Moon…

As the winter Sun rises, four of the five visible planets, Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Jupiter, will be found over the eastern and southern horizons. The two inner planets, Mercury and Venus, will both rise about an hour ahead of the Sun and will be visible just above the southeastern horizon at sunrise for about the first half of January. Look …

Presents information on the planet Mercury and points out how little is known about this planet which is much closer than Pluto. Features a list of visible planets and moon phases. (YDS)

Describes occultation events involving the moon, when the moon blocks the view of planets or stars. Describes other events such as a partial solar eclipse, a penumbral lunar eclipse, meteor showers, and moon phases. Provides a list of internet resources related to these events. (DLH)

Describes a celestial grid system that gives the coordinates for any object that delineates the sun's ecliptic path--the sun's apparent path through the year. Includes Internet resources. (KHR)

Explains how Venus changes visibility regularly from morning to evening because of its quick orbit time during part of the year. Includes a brief history of observations of this phenomenon and provides a detailed account from the Australian Aborigines. (DDR)

Discusses and explains early people's fears and explanations of eclipses. Describes the lunar eclipse scheduled for November 28-29. (PR)

Narrates a story, "Why Sun Cautiously Rises," which is adapted from a Pahute Indian legend of a tale about the Sun's changing position. (ZWH)