Activity
Science Buddies

Science Buddies: A Soluble Separation Solution

For Students 3rd - 5th
Have you ever mixed together salt and pepper? Isn't it fun to see how all of those tiny grains of salt and pepper mix together. But what if you had to separate them out again? Do you have nightmares of tiny tweezers, a magnifying glass,...
Activity
Science Buddies

Science Buddies: A Magnifying Discovery

For Students 3rd - 5th
Have you ever looked through a magnifying lens? Why do things look bigger when you look at them through the magnifying lens? Even though the object appears to get larger, it really stays the same size. Each lens has its own unique power...
Graphic
Curated OER

Merriam Webster: Visual Dictionary Online: Magnifying Glass

For Students 9th - 10th
Illustration of a magnifying glass.
Article
Khan Academy

Khan Academy: Thin Lens Sign Conventions

For Students 9th - 10th
Have you ever wondered why some people need glasses and others don't? It's because of the way light is focused by the lens in your eye. This lens, like magnifying glasses, eyeglasses, and contact lenses, is considered a thin lens.
Activity
Exploratorium

Exploratorium: Science Snacks: Giant Lens

For Students 9th - 10th
A discussion of how to make a refraction exhibit using a Fresnel lens. Consists of assembly instructions and a "To do and notice" section.
Activity
Exploratorium

Exploratorium: Water Sphere Lens

For Teachers 9th - 10th
A discussion of how to make a magnifying lens exhibit using a water-filled flask and a light bulb. Consists of assembly instructions and a "To do and notice" section. Great for a teacher demonstration or a student project.
Activity
Optical Society

Optical Society of America: Optics for Kids: Watch Tv Upside Down

For Students 1st - 5th
An experiment to invert a television image using a magnifying lens. Accompanied by an explanation of what's happening.
Website
Synopsys

Synopsys: Learn About Optics

For Students 9th - 10th
Highly informational optic site for kids provides everything one might want to know about light. Various topics include light basics, controlling light, lenses, complex lenses, what's cool about lasers and much more!