1-PS4-2
The standard
Make observations to construct an evidence-based account that objects can be seen only when illuminated.
Next Generation Science Standards
What this standard means
Students need to observe that we see objects when light shines on them or when the objects make their own light. They should use simple evidence from tests, not just say what they think. A toy in a dark box, a flashlight on a book, or a glowing object can all support the idea.
Mastery looks like a student saying, “I could not see the toy until the flashlight shined on it,” and using that as evidence. Students often think eyes make light, or that bright-colored objects can be seen in total darkness. They may also confuse seeing a light source with seeing an object lit by a source.
Ways to teach it
- Hands-on: Put a small toy in a shoebox viewer, let students look before and after shining a flashlight through a hole.
- Prompt: Write or tell, “What changed when the flashlight turned on, and how do you know?”
- Quick assessment: Show pictures of a dark closet, a lamp, and a lit teddy bear, then have students circle what can be seen and explain why.
- Real-world connection: Discuss why people use flashlights, night-lights, and car headlights when places or objects are dark.
Plan a lesson for 1-PS4-2
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
Related standards
- 4-PS3-2
Make observations to provide evidence that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electric currents.
- 2-PS1-3
Make observations to construct an evidence-based account of how an object made of a small set of pieces can be disassembled and made into a new object.
- K-PS3-1
Make observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth's surface.
- 4-PS4-2
Develop a model to describe that light reflecting from objects and entering the eye allows objects to be seen.