Lesson Plan
Curated OER

The Geometry of Real Images

For Teachers 9th - 12th
In this math worksheet, high schoolers read the examples for using the techniques of mathematical modeling. They draw the angles in order to simulate the reflection of light while using a concave mirror.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Spherical Mirrors

For Teachers 6th - 10th
Students view images in a spherical mirror and interpret the path of light. In this physics lesson, students view a large spherical mirror demonstrated by the instructor. They use shiny serving spoons to investigate the path of...
Lesson Plan
Cornell University

Beam Focusing Using Lenses

For Students 11th - 12th
Explore optics using an inquiry-based experimental approach! Young scholars use a set of materials to design and build a unit capable of focusing a beam of light. They experiment with different lenses to determine the best approach to...
Lesson Plan
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Science 4 Inquiry

Trick or Science: Catching the Light

For Teachers 6th - 8th Standards
Your class might be surprised to learn that mirrors have been around since the first century AD! Young scientists explore reflection and refraction of light through a series of challenges. They use this knowledge to design their own...
Lesson Plan
Cornell University

Building a Compound Light Microscope

For Students 9th - 12th
What better way to learn how to use a microscope than building your own? A lab investigation has scholars use lenses from magnifying glasses and sheets of cork to design their own compound microscopes. They calculate focal length...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Applied Science - Physics (5B) Post Lab

For Teachers 5th
Fifth graders analyze optical images. in this optical lesson, 5th graders look at how light reflects and refracts. They discuss different types of lenses and how they change the picture that is taken. 
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Intelligence Preference

For Teachers 8th
Eighth graders describe how light behaves when it strikes a surface. In this physics lesson plan, 8th graders investigate how the different types of mirrors reflect light. They work with their chosen group on a task they selected.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Extreme Flashlight Tag

For Teachers 5th
Fifth graders view a Powerpoint show about reflecting light. They experiment through a reflection simulation on the internet. Students complete the activity by using mirrors and light to complete send light to a specified spot.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

To See or Not to See: The Colors of Light

For Teachers 7th
Seventh graders describe and conduct an experiment that identifies the physical properties of light. They explore sources of visible light and an electromagnetic spectrum. Students explain the conversion of one form of energy to another.