Science Worksheet · Grades 3–5
Eclipses Worksheet
A printable science worksheet for grades 3-5 on solar and lunar eclipses. Students learn that a solar eclipse happens when the Moon blocks the Sun in the daytime, and a lunar eclipse happens when Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon at night. They classify eight clues, then answer four short questions. A complete answer key is included.
Subject
Science
Grades
Grades 3–5
Skill Focus
Eclipses, earth and space science
Lesson Length
20 minutes
Lesson Overview
About this worksheet
An eclipse happens when one object in space blocks the light of another. In a solar eclipse the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth and hides the Sun during the day; in a lunar eclipse the Earth passes between the Sun and Moon, casting its shadow on the Moon at night. This worksheet helps students tell the two apart.
Section A on page 1 gives eight clues about the position, time of day, and look of each event and asks students to write solar or lunar. The reference box teaches both kinds with a Sun-hides and Moon-darkens memory trick, then the items apply it.
Section B on page 2 asks what an eclipse is, names the two kinds, explains the day-versus-night difference, and asks why looking at a solar eclipse is dangerous. Page 3 is a complete answer key with sample answers. The skill builds on moon phases and Earth’s rotation.
How to Use This Lesson
Read the reference box aloud and model the line-up with three balls or students (Sun, Earth, Moon).
Complete Section A independently – have students ask ‘whose shadow falls on whom?’
Discuss why a solar eclipse is only safe to view with special glasses.
Use the answer key on page 3 for self-check.
Pair with the Moon Phases Worksheet or the Day and Night Worksheet.
Printable Resource
A classroom-ready PDF with everything in one printable resource.
Full Member Resource · Printable PDF · 3 pages · Answer Key
Eclipses Worksheet
A printable science worksheet for grades 3-5 on solar and lunar eclipses. Students learn that a solar eclipse happens when the Moon blocks the Sun in the daytime, and a lunar eclipse happens when Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon at night. They classify eight clues, then answer four short questions. A complete answer key is included.
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