6th - 8th Grade Module 5 Concept 3

Cycle 1

What is light? How can we model how light interacts with various types of matter?
Cycle Summary

In the previous concept, students learned about sound waves, how they interact with matter, and how their properties change when they interact with matter.

In this cycle, students discover the similarities and differences between sound and light waves and their interaction with matter. Students first explore properties of light by conducting an investigation and collecting data on how light interacts with a variety of materials. They then complete a webquest to obtain information about the properties of light and how the amplitude and frequency of light affects the type of light produced. Students look at the structure and function of materials to determine how that affects the behavior of light.

Students will use these skills and information to design a concert experience in the performance task.

Session 1
Elicit

Students complete a probe to identify objects that reflect, absorb, or transmit light.

Engage

Students investigate a phenomenon using a cup of water and an index card with an arrow drawn on it.

Session 1
Explore

Students work in stations to discover how light waves interact with various materials.

Session 2
Explore

Students work in stations to discover how light waves interact with various materials.

Session 3
Explore

Students work in stations to discover how light waves interact with various materials.

Session 4
Explain

Students read scientific texts and complete simulations in order to describe the properties of light and its interactions with various materials.

Session 5
Explain

Students read scientific texts and complete simulations in order to describe the properties of light and its interactions with various materials.

Session 6
Elaborate

Students complete a lab to investigate the effect of SPF of sunscreens on UV light transmittance and read informative texts on light and material science.

Session 7
Evaluate

Students complete a multiple choice and constructed response assessment, and revisit the probe and phenomenon from the beginning of the Concept.

Extend
Extend

Students read articles and watch short videos on bioluminescence and chemiluminescence.