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Science

Sources of Light

Overview

Children sort light sources from reflectors and explore where light comes from in their daily lives.

Learning Objective
Children distinguish between light sources and objects that reflect light, and can identify natural and artificial light sources.

Resources needed

  • None — or a torch if available

Lesson stages

0 / 7 done
  1. 1 Ask: close your eyes and imagine your room at night with no lights on. What can you see?
  2. 2 Ask: what gives us light? Collect ideas.
  3. 3 Sort light sources into natural (Sun, fire, bioluminescence) and artificial (torch, candle, electric light).
  4. 4 Ask: does the Moon make its own light? No — it reflects sunlight.
  5. 5 Discuss the difference: a light source makes light, a reflector bounces light.
  6. 6 Ask: why is a mirror bright? It reflects light, it does not produce it.
  7. 7 Ask: what would happen if the Sun disappeared for a week?

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Test reflective surfaces with a torch in a darkened space.
  • Make a simple periscope from a cardboard tube and two small mirrors.
  • Discuss bioluminescence — animals that produce their own light.
More information

Teach: light source, reflect, natural, artificial, Sun, shadow, bright, dark. The Moon-as-reflector concept is counterintuitive — handle with respect in contexts where it may conflict with cultural beliefs.

Focus on natural versus artificial light sources before introducing the source versus reflector distinction.

Can children name three light sources and classify them as natural or artificial? Can they correctly identify the Moon as a reflector, not a light source?

No resources needed. Use sunlight and shadow in the room to demonstrate. A smooth metal object or smooth water surface demonstrates reflection without a mirror.

The Moon produces its own light — this is believed by many adults as well as children. The Moon's phases showing how it is lit by the Sun are the best counter-evidence.

Light is fundamental to almost all physical science. The source/reflector distinction introduces the concept that observation does not always reveal the true nature of a phenomenon.

Activity details
Primary Easy 20 minutes no prep Whole Class, Small Group Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Light Light Sources Reflection