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Year 3 - Science

Protecting our eyes from the Sun: do and review

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 carry out and review an investigation about sun protection.

Key Notes

  • The Sun is always giving out light, but there are higher levels of ultraviolet light in the summer.
  • The UV index tells us how strong the Sun's damaging ultraviolet rays are.
  • Ultraviolet-sensitive beads change colour when exposed to UV light from the Sun.
  • Careful observations should be made when comparing UV beads before and after they have been exposed to the Sun.
  • Scientists often review a completed enquiry and write a conclusion.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Sun: The Sun is a star and is at the centre of our solar system.
  • ultraviolet (UV): Ultraviolet is a type of light produced by the Sun that human eyes cannot see. It can harm a human's skin.
  • exposed: To put or leave something in an unprotected place.
  • review: When scientists review, they look again at what they have done and consider if it could be improved.
  • conclusion: In a conclusion, scientists explain what the results show or mean.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • It is safe to look at the Sun on a cloudy day or when wearing sunglasses. Only lighter skin tones require protection from UV light.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

The Sun is always giving out light, but there are higher levels of ultraviolet light in the summer. The UV index tells us how strong the Sun's damaging ultraviolet rays are.

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

The Sun is a star and is at the centre of our solar system. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.

3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.

Mistake: It is safe to look at the Sun on a cloudy day or when wearing sunglasses. Only lighter skin tones require protection from UV light. Correction: Reminders that pupils should never look at the Sun. All skin tones require protection from UV light.

More Lessons In This Unit

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