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Year 3 - Science

Light sources

Introduction to light and shadows

Unit Summary

This unit explores the nature of light, recognising that light is needed to see and that dark is the absence of light. It covers how light reflects and shadow formation. The unit emphasises practical tests, observations, accurate measuring, and using evidence to support findings.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to identify and name natural and human-made light sources.

Key Notes

  • A light source is something that produces and gives out light.
  • Light sources can be natural or made by humans.
  • The Sun is our main natural light source.
  • The Moon is not a light source, it does not produce its own light.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • light source: Something that is a light source produces its own light.
  • human-made: Something that is human-made is made or caused by humans.
  • natural: A natural object or material has not been made or changed by humans.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils may think that all light sources are made by humans. Pupils may think that the Moon is a light source.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the scientific idea in this lesson using two key points.

A light source is something that produces and gives out light. Light sources can be natural or made by humans.

2. Define this scientific word and use it in context. 'light source'

Something that is a light source produces its own light. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.

3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.

Mistake: Pupils may think that all light sources are made by humans. Pupils may think that the Moon is a light source. Correction: Explanation that light sources can be natural or made by humans - use examples within the lesson slides. Explanation that the Moon does not produce its own light and is not a light source.

More Lessons In This Unit

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