Multiple shadows
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can investigate the number of shadows that can be cast by an object.
Key learning points
- Humans have used light sources to make their lives easier since ancient times.
- Scientists and engineers invent and design ways for us to use light to achieve different effects.
- When more than one light is used, more than one shadow can be cast by one object.
- Scientists gather evidence to answer questions and support their ideas.
Keywords
Light source - Something that is a light source produces its own light.
Fire - To get a fire going, you need fuel, air and heat.
Torch - A torch is a handheld light and can be powered by batteries or can have a burning flame.
Cast - To cast a shadow is to block light and cause a shadow.
Evidence - Evidence is information which helps us to prove that something is true or not true.
Common misconception
One object can only cast one shadow.
Children will investigate how the number of light sources affects the number of shadows cast by an object.
Teacher tip
Use practical investigation and personal experience to help children to understand how the number of shadows cast by an object depends on the number of light sources.
Equipment
Torches and objects with which to make shadows.
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these are light sources?
Q2.Which is the correct pair of column headings for the table?
Q3.What is the name of the part of the eye into which light is reflected to allow us to see?
Q4.A shadow is on the opposite side of an object where the light source cannot shine.
Q5.Which of these diagrams shows the correct position of the light source?
Q6.How do we see other people?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.How long have humans been creating and using light sources?
Q2.Which career is most likely to involve inventing and designing new ways for us to use light?
Q3.What was the earliest light source controlled by humans?
Q4.When more than one light is used, more than one can be cast by one object.
Q5.Which image shows the correct number of shadows?
Q6.What is evidence?
To help you plan your 6 science lesson on: Multiple shadows, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 6 science lesson on: Multiple shadows, 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.