To reflect light is when light hits a surface and bounces back.

A mirror is a reflective surface. Mirrors reflect a lot of light.

The surface is the top or outside layer of something.

Data loggers are electronic devices which monitor and record changes in the environment over time.

Lux is the unit used to measure the brightness of light.

Reflected light: plan

Science

Light and seeing

Light sources

Protecting our eyes from the Sun: plan

Protecting our eyes from the Sun: do and review

Opaque, transparent and translucent

Making shadows

Shadow size: plan

Shadow size: do

Shadow size: review

Reflected light: do and review

Light pollution (non-statutory Climate Change & Sustainability)

In this Introduction to light and shadows unit, pupils learn that we need light in order to see and that light is reflected from surfaces. In the Light and how it travels unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn that objects are seen because they give out or reflect light into the eye

In the Everyday materials unit, pupils became familiar with the names of common materials and properties such as opaque and transparent. In this Introduction to light and shadows unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to recognise that shadows are formed when light is blocked by an opaque object

This unit explores the nature of light, recognising that light is needed to see and that dark is the absence of light. It covers how light reflects and shadow formation. The unit emphasises practical tests, observations, accurate measuring, and using evidence to support findings.

Introduction to light and shadows

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

When light travels towards a surface and bounces off it, this is called ...

Which of these images shows a data logger?

What unit of measurement do we measure light in?

When an object blocks light from a light source.

When an object reflects light from a light source.

When an object blocks heat from a heat source.

Objects made of which kind of material make the darkest shadows?

A surface is the top or outside layer of something.

What happens to an object's shadow when the object moves further away from a light source?

Which word describes data that repeats in a recognisable way?

Why is it important for scientists to record the results of an investigation?

Reflected light: plan

Lesson outcome

Content guidance