Light Lab (Refraction and Reflection)

Target Learning:

• I can understand that energy occurs in many forms and can be observed
• I can demonstrate that light travels in and straight line unit it travels from one medium to another and can be reflected at the same angle.
• I can demonstrate that light can be refracted such as the appearance of an object when observed through water

 Materials:

• Washers
• Petroleum Jelly
• Glass microscope slide
• Water with dropper
• Empty beaker and a beaker full of water
• Flash light (or laser pointers) with black paper to make a beam of light
• Metal spoons
• Mirror

 Students will perform four different light activities. Two of them will demonstrate that light can refract and two will demonstrate that light can reflect. Students will learn that light is necessary to see objects. Light travels in a straight line and will continue to travel until it interacts with an object. Light travels in waves and can move through empty space. It can be absorbed, transmitted, refracted, or reflected. Reflection occurs when light bounces back from an object.

 This is hands-on learning activity. This can be done in groups or on their own. Students also get a folding lab sheet so they can glue it in their science spiral or science notebook.