Lunar and Solar Eclipse Worksheets for Grade 8 Integrated Science

📚 Topic Summary

Lunar and solar eclipses are fascinating astronomical events where one celestial body blocks the light from another. A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth. Conversely, a lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon, making it appear reddish or dim. Understanding the alignment of the Sun, Earth, and Moon is key to grasping these events. Remember: Sun-Moon-Earth = Solar Eclipse; Sun-Earth-Moon = Lunar Eclipse! These alignments don't happen every month because the Moon's orbit is tilted relative to Earth's orbit around the Sun.

📝 Part A: Vocabulary

Match the term to its correct definition:

1. Umbra
2. Penumbra
3. Solar Eclipse
4. Lunar Eclipse
5. Alignment

Definitions:

1. a. The darkest part of a shadow
2. b. When the Earth passes between the Sun and Moon
3. c. The lighter part of a shadow
4. d. When the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth
5. e. The arrangement of objects in a straight line

Match the number to the corresponding letter.

✏️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks

Use the following words to fill in the blanks: Sun, Moon, Earth, shadow, reddish

A solar eclipse happens when the ________ passes between the ________ and ________, creating a ________ on Earth. During a lunar eclipse, the Moon can appear ________.

🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking

Imagine you are an astronomer. Explain in your own words why solar eclipses are less frequent than lunar eclipses. Include at least two reasons in your explanation.