My lesson is based on The Sun and Shadows activity set with Senior Infants.
Strand: Energy and Forces
Strand Unit: Light
- explore how shadows are formed
Lesson: To create a shadow puppet show
Introduction:
We will begin by recapping what we have learned about the sun being a lightsource.
Children will investigate a sample of small world objects including cars, people, animals that have been provided. They can also collect other items from around the room. We will predict and then observe how the size/ shape of the shadow changes as it moves closer to and further away from the light source – projector/ torch.
Development:
Children will create their own puppet character and stick it to a lollipop stick. Working in their groups they will create a moving small puppet show by holding their puppets up to the light source.
Conclusion:
Children present their moving puppet stories to the class. We will review what we have learned about shadows and that they are created by objects blocking the light.
Extension activities:
Art: Children could trace the shadow of their puppet by fixing it in front of the light source and drawing the outline on black sugar paper. These could then be displayed in a shadow museum.