Shadow size: do
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can measure and record information about shadow size.
Key learning points
- The size of a shadow changes depending on the distance of an object from the light source.
- Height and distance can be measured using a ruler or tape measure.
- The results of an investigation can be recorded in a table.
- A table of results needs headings for each column. This helps other people to understand the information.
Keywords
Shadow - A shadow is a dark shape that is formed when an object blocks a source of light.
Light source - Something that is a light source produces its own light.
Distance - Distance is how far away something is or how far an object has travelled.
Measure - To measure is to use equipment to find numbers to describe a feature of something such as its length, weight, size or time.
Table - A table is a grid in which information can be recorded and stored.
Common misconception
The size of a shadow does not change.
Explanation of how the size of shadows change depending on the distance of the object from the light source.
Teacher tip
This lesson follows on from Shadow size: plan. Pupils can use their own plans or Izzy and Jacob's ideas to investigate how the distance between an object and a light source affects the size of a shadow. Working in front of a wall will make it easier for pupils to measure shadows accurately.
Equipment
Torches or lamps, opaque objects, rulers, tape measures.
Content guidance
Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Shadows are formed when ...
Q2.Which of these is not a light source?
Q3.True or false? The size of a shadow changes depending on the size of the light source.
Q4.The distance between an object and a light source changes ...
Q5.How can scientists find the answers to questions?
Q6.What do we call an investigation where only one thing is changed to find its effect on another thing that is measured, and all other things are kept the same?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which kind of material produces the darkest shadows?
Q2.Which statement is true?
Q3.Which of these can be used to measure the size of a shadow?
Q4.What is distance?
Q5.What do scientists use to record the results of an investigation?
Q6.Why do scientists put a heading at the top of each column in a table?
To help you plan your 3 science lesson on: Shadow size: do, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 3 science lesson on: Shadow size: do, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 science lessons from the Introduction to light and shadows unit, dive into the full primary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.