We can detect with our eyes in order to see things.

Something that is a light source produces its own light.

To record information is to keep it so that it can be passed on to others. This can be done in many ways including notes, tables, photos and drawings.

A diagram is a simplified drawing of information.

How light travels

Science

Light sources and light reflectors (non-statutory)

Light enters our eyes

Reflected light

Changing the direction of light

Measuring reflected light: plan

Measuring reflected light: do and review

How shadows form

Shadow shapes investigation

The position of shadows (non-statutory)

Multiple shadows

In the Light and how it travels unit, pupils learn that light travels in straight lines and how objects are seen. In the Sound, light and vision unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn more about how light is reflected off mirrors, and how the eye can see objects by the light they reflect

In the Introduction to Light and shadows unit, pupils learnt that shadows are formed when the light from a light source is blocked by an opaque object. In this Light and how it travels unit,  pupils will build on this knowledge to use the idea that light travels in straight lines to explain why shadows have the same shape as the objects that cast them

This unit explores how light travels in straight lines, explaining how we see objects and why shadows form the shape of the object casting them. It focuses on planning scientific enquiries, taking precise measurements, making predictions, and evaluating evidence to present findings.

Light and how it travels

To reflect light is when light hits a surface and bounces off in another direction.

A light reflector is something which reflects light.

High-vis is short for high-visibility and is used to describe clothing that is designed to reflect light and be easily seen.

We can detect light with our eyes in order to see things.

The pupil of the eye is an opening that allows light to enter the eye.

A model is used to describe something that can't be experienced directly.

Working scientifically: Using scientific diagrams - Light enters our eyes

Light is reflected when it hits a surface and bounces off in another direction.

A surface is the top or outside layer of an object or material.

A light ray is an arrow drawn on a diagram to show the direction in which light is travelling.

Working scientifically: Using scientific diagrams - Reflected light

If light is reflected, it is bounced off a surface.

Direction is the path that something takes to reach a particular place

An angle is the space between two straight lines which join at a vertex or point.

A periscope is a piece of equipment that uses angled mirrors to enable you to see over walls or around corners.

If light is reflected it is bounced off a surface.

A protractor is a piece of equipment used to measure and draw angles.

Scientists look for patterns in data to answer their questions.

The normal line is an imaginary line that is at a right angle to a surface on which light is reflected.

The results of a test or enquiry is what happened or what was found out.

Evidence is information which helps us to prove that something is true or not true.

A shadow is formed when an opaque object blocks out the light.

An object that is a light source produces its own light.

Light cannot pass through objects that are opaque.

Features make up the structure, form or appearance of something.

Reflections of objects are images that form when light bounces off a shiny surface.

A shadow is formed when an opaque object blocks the light.

To cast a shadow is to block light and cause a shadow.

A light ray is a line with an arrow on it drawn on a diagram to show the direction in which light is travelling.

The outline of an object is the main shape or edge of it without any detail.

A shadow is formed when an object blocks light.

A prediction is a statement saying what you think will happen.

To get a fire going, you need fuel, air and heat.

A torch is a handheld light and can be powered by batteries or can have a burning flame.

Help using Oak

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Light and how it travels

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