National Curriculum:

recognise that they need light in order to see things and that dark is the absence of light

notice that light is reflected from surfaces

recognise that light from the sun can be dangerous and that there are ways to protect their eyes

recognise that shadows are formed when the light from a light source is blocked by an opaque object

find patterns in the way that the size of shadows change

Investigations:

Shadows over a daily period

Sorting light and non light sources

Comparing shadows  

Which material is the most reflective?

WOW! Wonder Launch

Explore which objects form shadows when light is shone on them using torches.

Why do we need light to see things?We need light to see because our eyes can only see objects when light reflects off them. In the dark, there is no light, so we can't see anything—this is called the absence of light. Light can come from natural sources like the sun or artificial ones like lamps and torches. Without light, everything would look completely black.

How do we see objects around us?We see things when light reflects off their surfaces and into our eyes. Smooth, shiny surfaces like mirrors reflect more light, while dull surfaces reflect less. This reflection helps us recognise colours, shapes, and details. That’s why lights are important in dark places—to help light bounce off things so we can see them clearly.

Why can sunlight be dangerous and how can we protect our eyes?Sunlight gives us natural light, but it can also be harmful to our eyes and skin. Looking directly at the sun can damage your eyes, even if it doesn’t hurt. We can protect our eyes by wearing sunglasses, hats, or staying in the shade. It's important to enjoy the sun safely.

How are shadows made and why do they change size?A shadow forms when light is blocked by an object that light can't pass through—this is called an opaque object. The shadow is the dark shape that appears behind the object where the light can’t reach. Shadows can change size depending on how close the object is to the light source. The closer the object is to the light, the bigger the shadow becomes.

Light source – Something that makes its own light, like the sun, a torch, or a lamp.

Reflection – When light bounces off an object and into our eyes so we can see it.

Opaque – A material that light cannot pass through, which causes shadows.

Shadow – A dark shape made when something blocks light from reaching a surface.

Sunlight – Natural light from the sun that helps us see but can also be harmful to eyes and skin.