Sun Prints

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This activity uses a special paper that can create images with exposure to the Sun. Collect objects of different shapes and sizes and use them to make interesting patterns on your sun print. Most of our objects in the example blocked out the light, because they were opaque. Experiment using semi-opaque objects like mesh or colored glass, or test out reflective and refractive materials to see what images you can get.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 4 - 11
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Sunprint® paper
  • objects (as many as you can find)
  • flat container of water
  • a sunny day

Keywords

Subjects

  • Physical Sciences
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Diffraction and Interference
    • Light and Optics
      • Reflection and Refraction
      • Sunlight and Color

Informal Categories

  • Arts and Crafts
  • Nature and Environment
  • Outdoor Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • be mobile

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:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Science Museum of Minnesota, 1995

Funding Sources:

  • Unisys
  • Science Learning Network
  • National Science Foundation