Lesson Summary
“Candles that light _
_the way upstairs,
_Shadows dancing.” _
Shadows dance, shadows move. Over the course of a day, it seems like the sun moves from its rising place, all the way overhead, to its setting place. But did you know it’s actually us, the earth, who moves around the sun? Our shadows lengthen and stretch and shorten and move as we rotate around, our feet firmly on the ground, the earth not stopping for anything or anyone. It can take a long time to see your shadow move from place to place. Let’s use some simple items to see it happen fast.
Shadows are created when a light source hits and is blocked by opaque objects. Some objects do not create shadows, because they are transparent and the light sees right through them.
Lesson guides and printables
Lesson details
Curriculum Mapping
EYLF Learning Outcomes:
Learning Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners
Safety advice: This exercise utilises a lamp. The light bulb is hot when switched on and not to be touched directly! Be careful when using outlets. Also, be careful not to drop the lamp as cut glass could be very sharp.
Most kids will need help with this activity.
Ideal for: Early Learning Ages 3 – 5
Themes:
- investigate
- playtime
- chill time
- think and connect
Time required: 25 minutes
Curriculum connections: Science, Critical and Creative Thinking
Tips for Parents and Carers
At each stage of this activity, reflect on how the shadows translate to other objects.
Additional Info
Learning@Home resources are designed for parents and teachers to use with children in the home environment. They can be used as stand-alone activities or built into existing curriculum-aligned learning programs. Our Learning@Home series includes two types of resources. The first are fun and challenging real-world activities for all ages, the second are self-directed lessons for upper primary and secondary students. These lessons support independent learning in remote or school settings.
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