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Shadows

Key Stage 2

Meaning

A shadow is a dark area caused by an object blocking the light.

About Shadows

A shadow can be caused by an opaque object blocking the light from any light source like The Sun, or a light bulb.
The length of this shadow depends on the position of the light source and object.
ShadowStick1.png
ShadowStick2.png
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When the light source is overhead the shadow is underneath the object. When the light source gets lower the shadow gets longer. The lower the light source, the longer the shadow.
The size and shape of a shadow depends on the position of the light source and object.
ShadowCylinder1.png
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ShadowCylinder2.png
When the light source is far away the shadow is smaller. When the light source is closer to the object the shadow is bigger. If you move the object around you can get a different shaped shadow.

Note for Teachers

In year 7 students frequently answer the following question incorrectly: Only The Sun can cause shadows: True or False? It is unclear where this misconception comes form but teachers should take special care to ensure students consider this question thoughtfully.