Cylindrical Mirror

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In this activity, learners create a cylindrical mirror to see themselves as others see them. Since typical mirrors always reflect an image that is right-side up and reversed right to left, learners will be surprised to see how a cylindrical mirror can produce images that are flipped upside down and that are not reversed. Use this activity to introduce learners to mirrors and light.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • One 8 1/2 x 11 inch (22 x 28 cm) sheet of aluminized Mylar™
  • 1 transparent page protector
  • Construction paper or other stiff paper backing

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Human Body
      • The Brain and Nervous System
    • Human Senses and Perception
      • Vision
      • Perception
  • Mathematics
    • Geometry
      • Plane Geometry
  • Physical Sciences
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Light and Optics
    • Light and Optics
      • Lenses and Mirrors
      • Reflection and Refraction
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

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

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Access Rights:

  • Free access

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