New
New
Year 6

The position of shadows (non-statutory)

I can predict where a shadow will be cast in relation to the light source and the object.

New
New
Year 6

The position of shadows (non-statutory)

I can predict where a shadow will be cast in relation to the light source and the object.

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. A shadow is a dark shape made when light is stopped or blocked by an object.
  2. Scientists use drawings and diagrams to help share their ideas with other people.
  3. A shadow will be cast on the opposite side of an object where the light source cannot shine.
  4. The position of a shadow depends upon the position of the light source, i.e. the direction of light.
  5. Scientists use test results to make predictions and set up further enquiries.

Common misconception

Children may think that a shadow is cast in between the object and the light source.

Children need to explore shadows cast by different light sources in different positions and with different objects. They should note the position of the light source in relation to the object and the shadow each time.

Keywords

  • Shadow - A shadow is formed when an object blocks light.

  • Light source - Something that is a light source produces its own light.

  • Cast - To cast a shadow is to block light and cause a shadow.

  • Prediction - A prediction is a statement saying what you think will happen.

Ensure opportunities for children to explore shadows both inside and outside, using natural and artificial sources of light.
Teacher tip

Equipment

A range of everyday objects, light sources, images provided on the worksheet.

Content guidance

  • Exploration of objects

Supervision

Adult supervision recommended

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

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6 Questions

Q1.
Why are mirrors often used to investigate light?
An image in a quiz
they are inexpensive
they are light sources
Correct answer: they are highly reflective
Q2.
Who is correct?
Laura: "shadows are the same size as the object blocking the light"
Correct answer: Jun: "shadows are the same shape as the object blocking the light"
Sofia: "shadows show the features of the object blocking the light"
Q3.
Which image shows the correct shape shadow?
An image in a quiz
An image in a quiz
Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
An image in a quiz
Q4.
Which of these types of materials would not cast a shadow?
opaque
Correct answer: transparent
translucent
Q5.
Shadows are the same shape as the object blocking the light because light travels in lines.
Correct Answer: straight
Q6.
How can scientific diagrams help us understand the shape of shadows?
They can help show the colour of the light source.
Correct answer: They can help show where the light is blocked.
They can help show the type of light source used.

6 Questions

Q1.
A shadow is a dark shape made when is stopped or blocked by an object.
Correct Answer: light
Q2.
The position of a shadow depends on the of the light source.
shape
Correct answer: position
size
colour
Q3.
Which of these diagrams shows the correct position of the shadow?
An image in a quiz
Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
An image in a quiz
An image in a quiz
Q4.
A shadow will be cast on the side of an object to the light source where the light source cannot shine.
Correct Answer: opposite, other
Q5.
Scientists use the of their tests to make predictions and set up further enquiries.
An image in a quiz
predictions
diagrams
Correct answer: results
Q6.
Which of these diagrams shows the correct position of the light source shown by the X?
An image in a quiz
An image in a quiz
Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
An image in a quiz

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