Shadow size: do
I can measure and record information about shadow size.
Shadow size: do
I can measure and record information about shadow size.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
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.
To help you plan your year 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 year 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 secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Torches or lamps, opaque objects, rulers, tape measures.
Content guidance
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
Loading...
Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
