Photograph of Astronaut Edwin E. (Buzz) Aldrin, Jr. Posing on the Moon Next to the U.S. Flag
Postwar United States (1945 to early 1970s)
Teaching First Steps on the Moon
Published By:
Margarita Avery
Historical Era:
Contemporary United States (1968 to the present)
Thinking Skill:
Historical Analysis & Interpretation
Bloom’s Taxonomy:
Applying
Grade Level:
Upper Elementary
Suggested Teaching Instructions
Make sure the photograph of the astronaut is visible to all students. You can display it on the projector/smart board, print a copy, or have students view it individually on their devices.
Begin by given students the introduction and explain the historical context of Apollo 11 and the first moon landing.
Ask students to quickly scan the photograph and make observations. Encourage them to notice details such as astronaut, the lunar surface, the American flag, and a black sky.
Guide students through the discussion questions. Ask them to support their answers with evidence from the photograph.
Have students complete the conclusion checks to reflect on what they observed and learned.
Facilitate discussions by connecting the photo to larger ideas about space exploration, science, and historical impact.
For students who need more support, provide sentences starters like ” I notice….”, ” This shows…”, or ” This is important because…”
For advanced students, encourage them to connect the moon landing to the Space Race or technological advancements.
To assess students, evaluate them based on their observations participation in discussion, and completion of conclusion checks.
To the extent possible under law, Margarita Avery has waived all copyright and related or neighboring rights to “Teaching First Steps on the Moon”
Description
This activity uses a primary source photograph of the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969 to help students practice analyzing historical documents. Students will examine the astronaut, the lunar surface, and the American flag to make observations and inferences about this landmark event in space exploration. Through guided questions, discussions prompts, and conclusion checks, students develop critical thinking skills, practice using evidence from primary sources, and understand the historical significance of the first human steps on the Moon. This lesson is appropriate for intermediate to secondary students and can be used in history, social studies, or science classes.