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Year 3 - Science

Reflected light: 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 to compare different materials based on how reflective they are.

Key Notes

  • When light travels towards a surface and bounces off it, this is called reflected light.
  • A data logger can be used to record the amount of light reflected from different surfaces in lux.
  • The results of an investigation can be recorded in a table and used to make decisions about different materials.
  • The best surfaces for reflecting light are very smooth, such as a glass mirror or polished metal.
  • Scientists evaluate every stage of an investigation to suggest improvements.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • reflect: To reflect light is when light hits a surface and bounces off.
  • surface: The surface is the top or outside layer of something.
  • result: The result of a test or enquiry is what happened or what was found out.
  • evaluate: To evaluate is to think about what you did and suggest any changes or improvements.
  • improvement: An improvement is when something gets better or when you make it better.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • All materials reflect the same amount of light.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

When light travels towards a surface and bounces off it, this is called reflected light. A data logger can be used to record the amount of light reflected from different surfaces in lux.

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

To reflect light is when light hits a surface and bounces off. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.

3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.

Mistake: All materials reflect the same amount of light. Correction: Explanation that we can measure the differing amounts of light reflected by different materials.

More Lessons In This Unit

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