Engage students with a thought-provoking question: 'What colors of light can we not see with our eyes?' This will spark curiosity about the invisible spectrum of light.
Go to the LessonLesson Plans
Light We Cannot See
Learning Objectives
- Understand that the color of light is determined by its wavelength, with shorter wavelengths producing blue and purple light and longer wavelengths producing red and orange light.
- Identify types of light that are invisible to the human eye, such as ultraviolet light and infrared light, and describe their properties and uses.
- Explain the concept of the electromagnetic spectrum and recognize the different types of electromagnetic radiation it includes, from radio waves to gamma rays.
- Describe how certain animals, such as pit vipers, use infrared detection to sense heat and catch prey.
- Understand the practical applications of invisible light, such as the use of UV light in sterilization and X-rays in medical imaging.
Introduction and Hook
Introduce the concept of the electromagnetic spectrum and explain the difference between visible and invisible light.
Direct Instruction
Explain how the color of light is determined by its wavelength, with shorter wavelengths producing blue and purple light and longer wavelengths producing red and orange light.
Discuss the types of light that are invisible to the human eye, such as ultraviolet and infrared light, and describe their properties and uses.
Guided Exploration
Watch a video on the electromagnetic spectrum to visualize the range of electromagnetic radiation from radio waves to gamma rays.
Discuss how certain animals, like pit vipers, use infrared detection to sense heat and catch prey.
Hands-On Activity
Conduct an experiment using infrared cameras to detect heat from various objects in the classroom.
Use a UV light to explore how it can sterilize surfaces and discuss its practical applications.
Independent Practice
Assign students to research and present on a specific type of invisible light and its applications in real-world scenarios.
Check for Understanding
Use the 'Forms of Energy' assessment to reinforce vocabulary and concepts related to energy and light.
Review and Reflection
Have students reflect on what they learned about invisible light and its impact on technology and nature.
Assessment and Extension
Administer the 'Review – Energy' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of energy and light concepts.
Try the Quiz
Encourage students to explore further by researching how invisible light is used in modern technology, such as in remote controls or night-vision equipment.
