Learning Resource Type

Classroom Resource

How Light Moves

Subject Area

Science

Grade(s)

4

Overview

In this media-rich lesson, students conduct simple experiments to investigate how light travels. They examine the paths that light takes with different materials and observe shadows, reflection, and refraction.

    Science (2015) Grade(s): 4

    SC15.4.8

    Construct a model to explain that an object can be seen when light reflected from its surface enters the eyes.

    Unpacked Content

    UP:SC15.4.8

    Vocabulary

    • reflection
    • opaque
    • translucent
    • transparent
    • refraction

    Knowledge

    Students know:
    • Light enters the eye, allowing objects to be seen.
    • Light reflects off of objects, and then can travel and enter the eye.
    • Objects can be seen only if light follows a path between a light source, the object, and the eye.

    Skills

    Students are able to:
    • Construct a model to make sense of a phenomenon.
    • Identify relevant components of the model including: light (including the light source), objects, the path that light follows, and the eye.

    Understanding

    Students understand that:
    • An object can be seen when light reflected from its surface enters the eyes.

    Scientific and Engineering Practices

    Developing and Using Models

    Crosscutting Concepts

    Cause and Effect
    Link to Resource

    CR Resource Type

    Lesson/Unit Plan

    Resource Provider

    PBS
    Accessibility

    Accessibility

    Text Resources: Content is organized under headings and subheadings
    License

    License Type

    Custom
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