Mississippi Science P.1.6A

P.1.6A is a cluster heading. These are the individual standards under it.

• P.1.6A.1

  Construct explanations using first-hand observations or other media to describe how reflected light makes an object visible.

• P.1.6A.2

  Use evidence from observations to explain how shadows form and change with the position of the light source. * (Just for demonstration purpose)

01

What Students Need to Do

Students observe a toy with and without light shining on it. They explain that light bounces off the toy and reaches their eyes. They use what they see to explain why the toy casts a shadow and why the shadow changes when the light moves.

02

What Mastery Looks Like

A student can point to the light, the toy, and the shadow, then explain how each is connected. They can move a flashlight and predict where the toy's shadow will appear.

03

Common Misconceptions

Some students think they can see objects in complete darkness or that their eyes send out light. Others think a shadow is part of the object, rather than a place where the object blocks light.

04

How to Assess It

Show a toy casting a shadow on paper. Ask students to draw where the shadow will appear if you move the flashlight to the other side, then explain why they can see the toy.

1. 01

   Put a toy in front of white paper, then move a flashlight around it while students point out changes in the shadow.

2. 02

   Ask students, "Why can you see the toy when the flashlight is on but not when it is off?"

3. 03

   Give pairs drawings of flashlight positions and toy shadows, and have them match each shadow to its light position.

4. 04

   Trace a playground pole's shadow with chalk before and after lunch, then compare the marks and the Sun's position.

• E.K.8B

  Students will demonstrate an understanding that the Sun provides the Earth with heat and light.

• P.4.6B

  Students will demonstrate an understanding of the properties of light as forms of energy.

• P.5.5A

  Students will demonstrate an understanding of the physical properties of matter.

• P.2.5

  Students will demonstrate an understanding of the properties of matter.