New
New
Year 6
Multiple shadows
I can investigate the number of shadows that can be cast by an object.
New
New
Year 6
Multiple shadows
I can investigate the number of shadows that can be cast by an object.
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Lesson details
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.
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.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Torches and objects with which to make shadows.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on
Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Starter quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
Which of these are light sources?
high-vis clothing
the Moon
mirrors
Q2.
Which is the correct pair of column headings for the table?
A – light sources and B – light reflectors
A – human-made light source and B – natural light source
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?
light shines on them from our eyes
light is reflected off them from our eyes
they produce light which shines into our eyes
Exit quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
How long have humans been creating and using light sources?
since the year 2000
since Queen Victoria’s reign
since the 1900s
Q2.
Which career is most likely to involve inventing and designing new ways for us to use light?
mechanics
doctors
lawyers
Q3.
What was the earliest light source controlled by humans?
the Sun
the Moon
light bulbs
candles
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?
information which shows how to set up an investigation
information about how lights work
information about what equipment to use in an investigation
Additional material
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