Spring SAVY 2022 – Illuminating Science for Kindergarten (Webb)

Posted by delislss on Monday, February 7, 2022 in SAVY.

We had a great time in Illuminating Science! Students investigated many of the questions that they had about light and shadows. We started with comparing what an object looked like in a dark room to how it looked with a flashlight shining on it. Students noticed more details about the objects when illuminated by flashlights. This quick investigation solidified the idea that to see we need light. We identified different light sources around the classroom and named the different light sources that were familiar such as nightlight, lamps, candles, fireflies, etc. Then we explored shadows. We worked together to identify that to make a shadow we needed an object and a light source. Students investigated how to change the appearance of the shadow by changing the angle and distance of the light source.

Throughout the day, students had a chance to think about some related ideas including bioluminescence, UV light for plants, and what light and shadow are like on the moon. We watched a short video clip of bioluminescent sea creatures and how they use light. On the way to lunch, we saw plants under a UV light. We also watched a video read aloud of The Astronaut Who Painted the Moon by Dean Robbins.

After lunch, we investigated how different materials interact with light. We explored to see which materials let a lot, some, or no light through. Students also explored what happened with transparent materials of different colors. At the end of the day, students used their understanding of shadow and how light interacts with materials to create a shadow puppet show. Students noticed that getting the system of light source and puppet set up just right was tricky. It was great to hear students work through problems like how to keep their hands from making a shadow or where to place the flashlight. At home, you can recreate a shadow puppet theater with an unshaded lamp and a light sheet or other thin fabric.

For further investigation:

• Look for light sources around your home.
• Explore shadows indoors and outdoors and at different times of the day. Try to identify the light source and object that make the shadow.
• Read about or watch short videos about bioluminescence.
• Extend the learning and read about lighthouses and the Fresnel lens.