1. Origin of the Moon

2. Write in your journals several ideas for where you think the Moon came from. We will share some of these with the class.

3. The Sisters Theory The Earth and Moon formed the same time that the whole Solar System formed over 4.5 billion years ago. The masses of gas and dust formed two spinning bodies that became the Earth and Moon. Daughter Theory Dust and gas formed the Earth. During this process it began to spin very fast. Earth spun so fast that a blob was flung off into Earth’s orbit and formed the Moon.

4. Big Impact Theory Earth collided with a large object, possibly the size of Mars, early in it’s history. The impact ejected a large quantity of matter into space. It began to orbit Earth and over time, these fragmented pieces of matter formed the Moon. Capture Theory Early in the formation of the Solar System, a small planetesimal passed by Earth so close that that gravity pulled the small, fully formed planet into orbit. The Moon was “captured.”

5. Some have been proven to be more likely true, while others have been proven to be not likely true. We are going to observe simulations of some of these theories. Take GOOD notes on each theory as I will have a writing assignment for you when we are done. http://www.fossweb.com/delegate/ssi-foss- ucm/Contribution%20Folders/FOSS/multimedia_ms_1E/P lanetaryScience/binders/mo_origin.htm#Origin of the Moon Chose one theory and write a paragraph with that supports this theory to be true. You need Evidence from the animation.

6. When you are done, read the following stories. How to Get and Hold on to a Moon. Pgs. 69-70 and Gene Shoemaker: First Man on the Moon? You will be turning in an assignment on the back counter: Your paragraph selecting and supporting a theory of Moon origin. You must provide EVIDENCE of why you think this.