How shadows form
I can explore the size, colour and features of a shadow, and compare shadows to reflections of objects.
How shadows form
I can explore the size, colour and features of a shadow, and compare shadows to reflections of objects.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A shadow is a dark shape formed when light is stopped or blocked by an object.
- Opaque objects do not allow light to travel through them. Translucent objects let some light through.
- A shadow can be different sizes depending on the distance of the object from the light source.
- Shadows are dark where the light has been blocked and they do not show the features of the object.
- Shadows of objects are not the same as reflections of them.
Keywords
Shadow - A shadow is formed when an opaque object blocks out the light.
Light source - An object that is a light source produces its own light.
Opaque - Light cannot pass through objects that are opaque.
Features - Features are interesting characteristics or details of someone or something.
Reflection - Reflections of objects are images that form when light bounces off a shiny surface.
Common misconception
Shadows only form in bright light; shadows and reflections are the same thing; a shadow shows the features of an object.
Children will explore shadow making and images/examples will be used to highlight the key features of shadows and reflections.
To help you plan your year 6 science lesson on: How shadows form, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 6 science lesson on: How shadows form, 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 secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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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Starter quiz
6 Questions
does not let light travel through
lets light travel through
lets some light travel through
Exit quiz
6 Questions
these happen when light is blocked by an object
these happen when light bounces off an object onto a shiny surface