Communicating With Light

Learning Resource Type

Classroom Resource

Subject Area

Science

Grade(s)

1

Overview

Observe a group of children using light to communicate over a distance in this live-action video produced by WGBH. Use the video to observe strategies for using light to communicate across a distance as well as to design a light signal code to help you communicate to solve a problem from different locations.

Support materials include Background Reading, Teaching Tips, and Discussion Questions. This resource was developed through WGBH’s Bringing the Universe to America’s Classrooms project, in collaboration with NASA.

Science (2015) Grade(s): 1

SC15.1.4

Design and construct a device that uses light or sound to send a communication signal over a distance (e.g., using a flashlight and a piece of cardboard to simulate a signal lamp for sending a coded message to a classmate, using a paper cup and string to simulate a telephone for talking to a classmate).*

UP:SC15.1.4

Vocabulary

  • design
  • construct
  • device
  • light
  • sound
  • communication signal
  • distance
  • receive
  • simulate
  • design process
  • ask
  • imagine
  • plan
  • create
  • improve

Knowledge

Students know:
  • Light travels over a given distance.
  • Light can be used to communicate over a distance.
  • Sound travels over a given distance.
  • Sound can be used to communicate over a distance.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Use tools and materials provided to solve the specific problem of being able to communicate using signals over distance using light or sound.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • People depend on various technologies in their lives like devices that can be created to communicate over a distance using light or sound.

Scientific and Engineering Practices

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

CR Resource Type

Audio/Video

Resource Provider

PBS

License Type

Custom

Accessibility

Video resources: includes closed captioning or subtitles
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