Using Design Technology in STEM: Exploring Light and Reflection with 5th Graders
In our recent STEM activity with 5th graders, we integrated design technology to explore the fascinating principles of light and reflection. By blending hands-on experimentation with digital tools, students gained a deeper understanding of how light behaves and interacts with different surfaces. Here’s a look at our engaging lesson and how technology enhanced the learning experience.
Setting the Stage: Understanding Light and Reflection
Before diving into the activity, we introduced students to key concepts about light, including reflection, refraction, and absorption. We discussed how light travels in straight lines and bounces off surfaces, forming angles of incidence and reflection. Using real-world examples like mirrors, water surfaces, and shiny objects, students started recognizing how reflection is part of their everyday lives.
Hands-On Exploration: Creating Reflection Models
After exploring the digital tools, students applied their knowledge to a hands-on challenge: designing and building their own reflection models.
Activity Steps:
- Hypothesis Formation: Students predicted how light would reflect when hitting a mirror at various angles.
- Building Models: Using mirrors and cardboard, students created setups to direct light through a path.
- Testing and Observing: By shining flashlights onto their models, students observed how light reflected based on their mirror placement.
- Recording Data: They measured angles using protractors and compared them with their predictions.
- Refining Designs: Students adjusted their models to improve accuracy in directing light to specific targets.
Student Reflections and Learning Outcomes
Throughout the activity, students gained insights into:
- The law of reflection: The angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.
- How different surfaces (smooth vs. rough) affect light reflection.
- The practical applications of reflection in everyday technology, such as periscopes and optical devices.
Using not only made learning more interactive but also encouraged problem-solving and critical thinking. By integrating digital tools with hands-on experiments, students could visualize and test scientific principles effectively.