You Will Need
Provided Resources
- Data for investigation
- Shadow outlines
- Sample line graphs
Additional resources
- Lolly sticks
- Torches
- Mirrors
- Sticks and tape
Shadow giants
Science Year 6
This unit is part of
Year 6 Science Crime Lab Investigation
Objectives
Many witnesses saw the thief in shadow form, but none of the sightings add up to the same person - each shadow was a different size! Explore how shadows can be deceptive and recreate each sighting to help identify the possible height of our thief.
Science Objectives
i) Use the idea that light travels in straight lines to explain why shadows have the same shape as the objects that cast them.
Working Scientifically
- Plan different types of scientific enquiries to answer questions, including recognising and controlling variables where necessary.
- Take measurements, using a range of scientific equipment, with increasing accuracy and precision, taking repeat readings when appropriate.
- Record data and results of increasing complexity using scientific diagrams and labels, classification keys, tables, scatter graphs, bar and line graphs.
- Report and present findings from enquiries, including conclusions, causal relationships and explanations of and degree of trust in results, in oral and written forms such as displays and other presentations.
Lesson Planning
Key Teaching
- Note and explain that a shadow has the same shape as the thing or person casting it.
- Plan and carry out an investigation into shadow size and position of a light source.
- Use data from their investigation to draw a line graph.
Key Activities
- Be able to explain that a human shadow has the same shape as the person casting it.
- Independently plan and carry out an investigation into shadow size and position of a light source.
- Draw a line graph from investigation data and note any patterns.
Key Investigation - fair testing, exploring, pattern seeking
Investigate shadows and how they change as a result of light sources.
Key Vocabulary
Light, light source, reflect, reflective, mirror, shadow, block, direction, transparent, opaque, translucent, straight