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

A surface is the top or outer layer of an object.

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

Reflected light

Science

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

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Activity that requires collection of items from an area (room, building).

How do we see light sources when we look directly at them?

What is the name given to the arrow drawn in a diagram to show the direction in which light is travelling?  

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

light is reflected off them into our eyes

light is reflected off them from our eyes

How do we see things that are not light sources?  

Light travels from a source to an object.

Light is reflected off the surface of the object.  

Reflected light travels from the object into our eyes.

Starting with the one which happens first, order these steps explaining how we see things which are not light sources. 

Which of these diagrams correctly shows how we see the teddy?

What is the name given to a simplified drawing of information? 

Which of these is a natural light source? 

In scientific diagrams, how is light shown?

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

Content guidance

Exploration of objects

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Reflected light

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.