Year 7 Science · Unit 4 · Lesson 11

First Astronomers: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sky Knowledge

Master Worksheet

Name
Date
Class

Learning Goals

Read the pattern

The table below shows the size of the high tide on different days, next to the Moon's phase on that day. Study it, then answer the questions underneath.

DayMoon phaseHeight of high tide
1Full Moon3.6 m
5Waning gibbous3.0 m
8Last quarter2.2 m
12Waning crescent2.9 m
15New Moon3.7 m
22First quarter2.1 m
High tide height versus Moon phase: tallest at full Moon and new Moon (spring tides), shortest at the quarter Moons (neap tides) 4 m 0 m Full Waning Last qtr Waning New First qtr

(a) Using the table and chart, describe the pattern between the Moon's phase and the height of the high tide. On which phases were the tides tallest, and on which were they shortest?

Challenge 3 marks

(b) Explain the pattern you found using the scientific account. Why are the tides tallest at full Moon and new Moon, and shortest at the quarter Moons?

Challenge 3 marks

(c) Extended response. Write a respectful compare-and-contrast of the Yolngu Cultural Knowledge of the Moon and tides and the mainstream scientific explanation. Your answer should: name the Nation; describe each account fairly; give at least one way they are similar and one way they differ; and explain why both can be seen as reliable ways of knowing that are built from observation. Avoid framing it as "myth versus fact".

Challenge 6 marks

Wrap Up

In one sentence, what was the main idea of this lesson?