Light sources and light reflectors (non-statutory)
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe the difference between light sources and light reflectors.
Key learning points
- Light can come from many different sources, such as the Sun, stars, torches, lamps and candles.
- Some objects appear to shine but they are reflecting light from a light source.
- Objects can be identified and grouped as light sources and light reflectors.
Keywords
Light source - Something that is a light source produces its own light.
Reflect - To reflect light is when light hits a surface and bounces off in another direction.
Light reflector - A light reflector is something which reflects light.
High-vis - High-vis is short for high-visibility and is used to describe clothing that is designed to reflect light and be easily seen.
Common misconception
Children often think that light reflectors are actually light sources because they 'shine'.
Provide opportunities for children to investigate a range of real objects for themselves. They need to know that light reflectors appear to shine because they are reflecting light from a light source.
Teacher tip
Provide lots of silver and 'shiny' objects for children to test. Try to include a real high-vis jacket or vest and bike reflectors to demonstrate with.
Equipment
Shoe box with secure lid, a range of light sources and reflectors including: mirror, battery operated candle, kitchen foil, silver coin, high-vis vest or armband, torch.
Content guidance
Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these do we need to be able to see things?
Q2.The Sun is a natural light .
Q3.How does light travel?
Q4.Light travels from a source in __________ directions.
Q5.Which of these diagrams would a scientist use to show how light travels from a light source?
Q6.Which of the following is a light source?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is a light source?
Q2.Which of these are light sources?
Q3.Match the type of light source with the example.
Q4.The Moon appears to shine because it light from the Sun.
Q5.If light reflects off a surface, what does it do?
Q6.Which two items have been grouped incorrectly in the table?
To help you plan your 6 science lesson on: Light sources and light reflectors (non-statutory), download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 6 science lesson on: Light sources and light reflectors (non-statutory), 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 Light and how it travels unit, dive into the full primary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.