Year 3 – CBOL Session 12: Light (Shadows)

This final session in the CBOL Light series helps children explore how shadows form and change size. Through hands-on team challenges and enquiry investigations, pupils develop scientific thinking, spatial reasoning, and vocabulary in an active outdoor setting.

🌑 Core Learning:

Students understand:

• Shadows are created when light is blocked
• Opaque materials make the darkest shadows
• Translucent materials let some light through
• Moving objects closer/further from a light source changes shadow size
• Light travels in straight lines

🚀 What’s Included:

✔ Full Teacher Guide & Script
✔ Shadow Concept Cards (Opaque, Translucent, Shadow, Cast, Light Source, Silhouette)
✔ Light Physics Cards (Source, Beam, Emit, Transparent, Absorb, Illuminate)
✔ Vampire Assault Course Instructions
✔ Ray of Light Robot Walk Setup
✔ Monster Shadow Investigation Worksheet
✔ Equipment & Setup Checklist
✔ Safety Guidance

🔬 Investigation: Monster Shadows

Enquiry Question:
How does distance affect shadow size?

Students:

• Use a torch to cast shadows onto a wall
• Hold a monster puppet close, middle, and far from the torch
• Measure shadow height
• Record, compare, and analyse results
• Conclude: Close → Big shadow, Far → Small shadow

They practise:

• Prediction & fair testing
• Accurate measurement
• Observational recording
• Evidence-based explanation

This lesson develops:

• Vocabulary precision (Opaque, Translucent, Cast, Silhouette)
• Measurement & recording skills
• Conceptual understanding of light & shadows
• Teamwork & communication
• Hands-on enquiry skills

Children leave understanding that shadows aren’t just shapes — they are predictable, measurable, and fun to play with!

📥 Turn your classroom or playground into a living shadow lab.