Glue Stick Sunset

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In this activity, learners explore why the sky is blue. Learners model the scattering of light by the atmosphere, which creates the blue sky and red sunset, using a flashlight and clear glue sticks. This resource guide includes an explanation of how light scatters and how this scattering can cause the polarization of light.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • Mini-MagLite or penlight (a regular flashlight can also be used, but its larger beam of light doesn't work as well)
  • 4 to 6 glue sticks (must be the clear ones used in glue guns)
  • White background (paper, wall, or cloth)
  • Clear packaging tape
  • Two polarizing filters

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Atmosphere
  • Life Sciences
    • Human Senses and Perception
      • Vision
  • Physical Sciences
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Wave Properties
    • Light and Optics
      • Sunlight and Color
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Informal Categories

  • Nature and Environment

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

Funding Sources:

  • National Science Foundation
  • California Department of Education
  • NEC Foundation of America