K-6 Science for the Next Generation

Lesson Plans
Frequency and Dispersion of Light

Learning Objectives

  • Describe how frequency relates to the color of light in the visible spectrum.
  • Explain the process of dispersion and how it creates a rainbow from white light.
  • Identify how the color of an object is determined by the absorption and reflection of light waves.
  • Discuss the relationship between light absorption, reflection, and the temperature of materials.

Introduction and Hook

Engage students with a discussion on how we perceive different colors in our daily lives. Introduce the concept of frequency and its relation to color.

Go to the Lesson

Show an image of a rainbow and ask students how they think it forms. This will lead into a discussion on dispersion.

Direct Instruction

Explain the concept of frequency and how it determines the color of light. Use the visible light spectrum as a visual aid.

Introduce the process of dispersion using a prism as an example to show how white light separates into different colors.

Guided Exploration

Watch a video on how light waves of different frequencies create different colors. This video helps students visualize the abstract concept of frequency.

Video thumbnail

Conduct a guided discussion on how the color of an object is determined by the absorption and reflection of light waves.

Hands-On Activity

Perform a prism experiment to observe the dispersion of light. Students will see firsthand how white light separates into a spectrum of colors.

Use colored filters to explore how they affect the color of light passing through them.

Independent Practice

Assign students to find objects at home that reflect or absorb light and describe their observations in a journal.

Check for Understanding

Use a quick quiz to assess students' understanding of frequency, dispersion, and light reflection.

Try the Quiz

Review and Reflection

Have students share their journal observations and discuss how light interacts with different materials.

Reflect on the learning objectives and discuss any remaining questions or confusions.

Assessment and Extension

Use the 'Visible Light – Comprehension' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of light dispersion and color perception.

Assessment thumbnail

For further exploration, students can engage in the 'Reflection Challenge' to understand how light behaves when it encounters different surfaces.

Assessment thumbnail

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