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. As they make the changes, the path of the light changes and impacts the size of the reflected image.

Concepts

telescopes, light, concave mirrors, convex, mirrors, the law of reflection

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

science

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Use the Challenge Me questions as guiding questions as pupils manipulate the interactive
• Bring examples of convex and concave mirrors for classes to reference as they work with the manipulative

Classroom Considerations

• Requires a free CK-12 account to access resources

Pros

• Interactive allows for flexible exploration without specific constraints
• Introductory video provides background information prior to the simulation

Cons

• None