What happens when a light source is shone
through a prism?
Angle of
incidence
Light
source
Prism
Refraction
Angle of
refraction
8.
As you will see in the Shoebox, light is refracted when shone
into a prism. Light is refracted when it is passed through other
objects and substances such as water. In the Colourbox, children
will see the difference between refraction and reflection. The
optics of refraction and reflection are complex, relying on an
understanding of wavelengths and ultimately of quantum theory.
Some children may seek explanations to this depth.
However, without reaching this level of understanding, children
can construct for themselves working hypotheses about
refraction and reflection.
We will provide paper, protractors and pencils to enable the
children to draw what they see the light doing.
®
©
2009