How Light Moves

Learning Resource Type

Classroom Resource

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.

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

CR Resource Type

Lesson/Unit Plan

Resource Provider

PBS

License Type

Custom

Accessibility

Text Resources: Content is organized under headings and subheadings
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