Science / Year 5 / Science Understanding / Physical sciences

Curriculum content descriptions

Light from a source forms shadows and can be absorbed, reflected and refracted (ACSSU080)

Elaborations
  • drawing simple labelled ray diagrams to show the paths of light from a source to our eyes
  • comparing shadows from point and extended light sources such as torches and fluorescent tubes
  • classifying materials as transparent, opaque or translucent based on whether light passes through them or is absorbed
  • recognising that the colour of an object depends on the properties of the object and the colour of the light source
  • exploring the use of mirrors to demonstrate the reflection of light
  • recognising the refraction of light at the surfaces of different transparent materials, such as when light travels from air to water or air to glass
ScOT terms

Light,  Waves (Energy)

Interactive

DIY Sun Science - iTunes app

Try some hands on investigations that relate to learning about the Sun. Follow step-by-step procedures, read through explanations to find out why things happened and also view related video clips. Free when reviewed on 12/5/2015.

Interactive

Fair test

Run experiments in a plant research laboratory. Investigate the effects of different variables on the growth of lettuces, peas and tomatoes. Research the answers to questions about how to achieve optimum hydroponic growth conditions. Examine the effect of key variables on growth: nitrogen, temperature, light intensity and ...