How does a telescope magnify images? Learners first watch a tutorial explaining the basic construction of a telescope. Then they interact with a simulation that allows for changes in the location and diameter of the reflecting mirrors....

Young scholars experiment with water and mirrors to better understand how telescopes work. For this telescopes lesson plan, students use water and mirrors to see how mirrors reflect light and create a magnified image.

Students explore the basic principles of the operation of the NASA's KAO telescope. They construct a simplified model of it using film canisters and other everyday objects. Step by step directions are included in plan.

Students investigate the Law of Reflection and how light travels.  In this reflection lesson students produce data from their experiment then create a pencil tracing.

Eighth graders are introduced to concepts related to the Solar System. In groups, they participate in an experiment in which they must describe a ray of light and how it travels. They draw a diagram of the electromagnetic spectrum and...

Third graders utilize the scientific method to explain light and optics in this five lessons unit. Through experimentation and discussion, 3rd graders canvass the concepts of light traveling, reflection and refraction.

Fifth graders view a Powerpoint show about reflecting light. They experiment through a reflection simulation on the internet. Students complete the activity by using mirrors and light to complete send light to a specified spot.

Students explore light.  In this physical science light lesson, students display objects on a projection screen and investigate how light absorbs, refracts, transmits and reflects. Students discuss common features of light based on...

Learners investigate lenses and mirrors showing how they bend and reflect light waves.

Fifth graders observe the video, Exploring Light and Color. They access a website to create their own light show. They conduct lab experiments to investigate refraction, reflection,and other light-related topics.

Students study cosmic rays and the energy behind them.  In this atmospheric lesson students complete a cosmic ray telescope project. 

Put together the pieces and model a parabola. Learners work through several examples to develop an understanding of a parabola graphically and algebraically. 

Students plot the positions of the planet Jupiter while predicting what the configuration system looks like from Earth. In this configuration of satellites activity, students photograph Jupiter and its moons to record the motions of...

Young scholars explain how moon phases occur. They explain three ways that the night sky has been used through history. Students locate some of the constellations in the night sky. They discuss stories and myths surrounding stars.

Students, after analyzing the history of a concentrator, model how a Genesis spacecraft concentrator works by playing a game. In groups of three or four, after being given materials to work with, are challenged to roll the rubber balls...