See the Light

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In this three-part activity, learners conduct simple experiments to see how light refracts and reflects, and how colors of light affect what we see. Use these activities together or individually to explore properties of light.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • 1 flashlight
  • 1 mirror
  • construction paper (optional)
  • 1 wide-toothed comb
  • 2 clear bottles or glasses
  • water
  • cooking oil
  • 1 white paper cup
  • red, green, and blue markers
  • strand of brightly colored holiday tree lights
  • 1 pen or pencil

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Human Senses and Perception
      • Vision
  • Physical Sciences
    • Vibration and Waves
    • Light and Optics
      • Lenses and Mirrors
      • Electromagnetic Spectrum
      • Reflection and Refraction
      • Sunlight and Color
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Source Collection

  • Ology

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, American Museum of Natural History,