How Shadows Form
Recognise that shadows are formed when light from a source is blocked by an opaque object, and find patterns in how shadow size changes
Lesson
Set out your lesson
“How Shadows Form means knowing shadows form when an opaque object blocks light, and shadow size can change. We will practise once together, then check a fresh example.”
Bring to the table
- Torch or lamp (adult-controlled)
- Opaque object card
- Shadow-size change card
Extra for the adult
Worked example. A shadow forms when an opaque object blocks light from a source. Shadow size can change when light or object position changes.
Optional challenge. For How Shadows Form, say how size can change.
What to notice. Keep one parent note: shadow made; size notice; support used. This session samples shadows, not mastery of light.
Share and support
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Teaching approaches
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2 approaches
How Shadows Form means knowing shadows form when an opaque object blocks light, and shadow size can change. We will practise once together, then check a fresh example.
Spend about 12 minutes making one safe shadow and noticing size change, then checking one fresh fact.
Explain a shadow using light, a blocker and a receiving surface.
Explain a shadow using light, a blocker and a receiving surface.
Family records and proof options
Keep a record of your learning
Save photos, notes, and attendance. Export a proof packet for compliance or portfolio reviews.
Practice this concept
Start practiceHow Shadows Form practice
Choose how shadows form and change.
Free · no login · no ads · Practice answers and completion are not saved. Parent observation remains the lesson record.
Learning resources
Extra practice links — they do not replace Gakuva’s teaching approach.
PhET Interactive Simulations · Practice link — not the full lesson
Color Vision
Before you open · source notes
Color Vision supports hands-on exploration for How Shadows Form. Not every lab worksheet.
Free interactive page, no sign-in required for the tested path.
Before you openAsk the learner what they changed in the sim or page and what they observed.
Opening this link does not save learning or assess mastery.
Source, access and review notes
Public PhET Interactive Simulations page. An anonymous GET on 2026-11-12 returned HTTP 200 with no login or payment prompt for this URL. Opening the link does not save practice or assess mastery. An adult should preview and guide the learner.
PhET Interactive Simulations. “Color Vision.” External page; Gakuva does not copy, host, embed, or redistribute materials.
Unknown — link only
Check understanding
- Explain that a shadow forms because an opaque object blocks light from reaching a surface
- Describe the pattern: shadow gets larger when object moves closer to the light source
- Predict the shape and relative size of a shadow given the position of light and object
“Can your child make shadow puppets and explain why the shadow gets bigger when you move the puppet closer to the torch?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Conceptual
- Subject
- Science
- Domain
- Waves, Light & Sound
- Age range
- Ages 7–8
Standards