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.
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. |
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.