Free Phases of the Moon Word Search Printable
The phases of the moon word search is one of our favorite ways to reinforce lunar vocabulary while keeping things low-key and fun.
This free word search printable fits nicely into any moon phases worksheet set, and it’s been especially handy during quiet mornings or when we’re wrapping up a space science unit. It’s simple, but it sticks—and kids actually enjoy it.
What Are The Phases Of The Moon?
The phases of the moon refer to the different ways the moon appears from Earth as it orbits our planet. These changes occur because of the moon’s position relative to the Earth and sun.
The cycle begins with the new moon, when the side facing Earth is completely in shadow. It then progresses through the waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent before repeating.
If you’re introducing this concept to younger learners, using a moon phases word search can reinforce vocabulary while offering a calm, focused activity during your space unit.
Moon Phases Word Search
This phases of the moon word puzzle is free to print for personal or classroom use. You’ll find the PDF at the bottom of the page, along with an answer key for easy checking.
Words may appear horizontally, vertically, diagonally, and even backward, making it a fun challenge for kids familiar with moon vocabulary.
There are 15 lunar-related terms included:
- Astronaut
- Craters
- Crescent
- Eclipse
- First
- Full moon
- Gibbous
- New moon
- Orbit
- Phases
- Quarter
- Rotation
- Third
- Waning
- Waxing
Tip: Use a highlighter or circle the letters rather than crossing them out—some letters appear in more than one word.
To extend your space-themed lessons, try pairing this activity with a phases of the moon wreath craft or other hands-on lunar projects.
What Are the Educational Benefits of Word Search Puzzles?
Word search puzzles aren’t just a fun time filler—they support learning in meaningful ways. They reinforce vocabulary, improve spelling, and encourage pattern recognition. These visual processing skills often carry over into subjects like reading, math, and science.
For homeschoolers and classroom teachers alike, word searches can be a low-prep way to strengthen focus, memory, and cognitive flexibility, especially when tied to a current unit of study.
Adding this word search to your space unit is an easy way to combine science and literacy in one activity.
More Free Moon Printables
Looking for more ways to explore the moon with your students? These additional printables make a great complement to the word search:
- If I were an astronaut worksheet – A fun creative writing prompt that gets kids thinking about space exploration.
- Moon phases crossword puzzle – Reinforces lunar vocabulary with a slightly different format.
- Phases of the moon Elf on the Shelf printable – A creative holiday twist that blends space science with a bit of seasonal fun.
Get the Free Moon Phases Word Game Here!
This will print out on 2 pages, the first one with the word search, and the second page will show you the answers.
To get your free kids printables, simply add your name and email address to the form below.
If you don’t see the form below, click here to get the free moon word search.
More Free Word Search Puzzles
If your kids enjoyed this moon-themed puzzle, they might also like these other free word searches:
Last Updated on 29 April 2025 by Clare Brown