Teaching article
Reflection: move the patch with a small mirror turn
Follow a torch beam between a stable mirror and a paper target.
An unbreakable mirror and paper target make a gentle torch demonstration manageable. Keep attention on the reflected patch and the mirror's orientation, with the beam directed away from eyes throughout.
Secure the mirror. Adjust its angle. Mark the reflected light patch.
Follow the patch on the target
Use a paper target to make the reflected patch visible. Describe where the light appears rather than following beams with anyone's eyes.
A small mirror turn can move the patch across the target.
Which change moved the patch? Let an educator handle positioning.
Never use concentrated sunlight.
Resources
- Torch investigation – Light and Shadow Major Activity — Follow the torch activity when investigating projected light and shadows.
Further reading
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