Shadow Play

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In this three part activity, learners explore and experiment with shadows to learn about the Sun's relative motion in the sky. Learners will trace, measure and compare their shadows over time, rotate around a lamp to mimic the Earth's daily orbit, and use a flashlight to simulate sunrise and sunset over an action figure. These activities can be combined as a comprehensive unit or used individually. If used individually, learning time will vary. This lesson guide also includes information about Sunwatchers, special members of the Pueblo tribe.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 4 - 11
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Simulation
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Chalk
  • Outdoor drawing area
  • Lamp
  • Action figure and flashlight

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
    • Earth, Moon and Sun
      • Days
    • Solar System
      • The Sun
  • Physical Sciences
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Light and Optics
    • Light and Optics
      • Reflection and Refraction
      • Sunlight and Color
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Formulating Explanations

Informal Categories

  • Outdoor Activity
  • Nature and Environment
  • Physical Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • be mobile
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Education and Outreach Office, McDonald Observatory

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, The University of Texas at Austin, 2008

Funding Source:

  • NASA (Space Telescope Science Institute, operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy), HST-EO-10861.35-A