Light Energy

TEKS:
4.1 A&B Do a lab.
4.2 B Collect information by observing
4.2 C Analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations
from direct and indirect evidence
4.2 D Communicate valid conclusions
4.11 C Identify the Sun as the major source of energy for the Earth

Objective:
TLW distinguish transparent, translucent, and opaque by experimenting with
various objects and shining light through each one.

Engage:
Ask students what is the primary source of light on earth? Our primary source of
light is the sun. Next, show the students the a graphic organizer poster with the
sun and ask them for other sources of light on earth. They will list their answers
on the rays on the poster. (Answers could include fire, electricity, batteries, light
bulbs.) When we shine a light at certain objects, why is the light blocked on some
objects and the light passes through other objects?

Explore:
A variety of materials will be laid out on a table such as tissue paper, wax paper,
aluminum foil, cloth, cardboard, plastics, a glass, mirror, wood, and a glass of
water. Each pair of students will have a flashlight and their prediction/conclusion
sheet. The students will work together on their predictions to find out if the light
will pass through the object, or if the light will be blocked partially or totally.
Once the students have written down their predictions, they will
experiment with the materials as they shine the light on each one. One student
will shine the light at each material, as the other will write the conclusion down.
The pairs should alternate duties.

Sherry Tennyson and Therin Smith Texas Tech University/NSTA

Explain:

First, post the labels transparent, translucent, and opaque on the wall. Ask the
students to define the terms. They will share various definitions and collaborate
to find a best definition. The definitions according to Marriams dictionary are:
Transparent: to show through
Translucent: transmitting and diffusing light so that objects beyond cannot be
seen clearly
Opaque: blocking the passage of radiant energy and especially light
If a pane is translucent, light will pass through it. If the light is diffused the details
of an object will be clearly seen on the other side. If a pane is transparent, light
will pass through it nearly or wholly undiffused, so that one can see clearly the
details of an object on the other side.
An ordinary glass window is transparent.
A frosted glass window is translucent.
An object, like a piece of wood, that permits no light to pass through it is
opaque; because you can see nothing through it at all.

Elaborate:
Have students work in groups and brainstorm the importance of each category
by making a list of examples for each. (For example, transparent is important in
a glass window to let the sunshine into a dark room.)

Evaluate:
Discuss as a class, the various examples and determine their categories.
Students will write examples on index cards and tape the cards under the proper
title on the wall.

Sherry Tennyson and Therin Smith Texas Tech University/NSTA