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Year 3 - Science

Opaque, transparent and translucent

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 compare different materials based on how transparent they are.

Key Notes

  • Materials can be compared and classified according to how much light can pass through them.
  • Opaque materials do not let light pass through them.
  • Transparent materials allow light through so objects can clearly be seen through them.
  • Translucent materials allow some light to pass through but are not completely see-through.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • materials: A material is what an object is made from. An object can be made from more than one material.
  • classify: To classify is to sort objects into groups.
  • opaque: Light cannot pass through objects that are opaque.
  • transparent: Transparent materials are completely see-through.
  • translucent: Translucent materials allow some light to pass through but are not completely see-through.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • All materials that let light through them are transparent.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Materials can be compared and classified according to how much light can pass through them. Opaque materials do not let light pass through them.

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

A material is what an object is made from. An object can be made from more than one material. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.

3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.

Mistake: All materials that let light through them are transparent. Correction: Explanation of the difference between materials that are transparent and those that are translucent.

More Lessons In This Unit

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