They explore how light and optics are used in their everyday lives and in technology to extend natural human abilities and to make life easier. They make observations and participate in hands-on activities, make generalizations, and apply concepts. They note the relationship between the source and characteristics of the waves, and illustrate what they observe.
Students complete an activity sheet at each station.
Students construct models using a mirror, a lens, and a narrow beam of light to demonstrate reflection and refraction and to trace the path of light. Students repeat the experiment at different angles and record what they observe. As an extension, students explain how this information might be useful in correcting nearsightedness and farsightedness in humans. Using a hand magnifier or microscope, students examine newspaper print and magazine pictures to see how colour print is created. They record their observations.