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Physical Science · Waves & Information

Light Reflection & Vision

Build a source → object → eye model to explain vision, then use a mirror target investigation to show that changing mirror orientation changes the direction of reflected light.

Teacher workspace

Start with the lesson plan.

45 min~10 min prep6 materialsNGSS verified · 4-PS4-2

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Lesson overview

What students will learn

  • Develop a model showing that an object is seen when reflected light enters the eye.
  • Use mirror observations as evidence that changing mirror orientation changes reflected-light direction.

Key science ideas

  • Light travels from a source to an object.
  • Light reflects from the object in many directions.
  • An object is seen when some reflected light enters the eye.

Lesson at a glance

  • Grade 4
  • 45 min
  • ~10 min prep
  • 4-PS4-2
  • 6 materials

What’s included

  • Lesson Plan
  • Investigation
  • Teacher Slides
  • Printable Worksheet
  • Teacher Answer Key
  • Interactive Activity
  • Vocabulary