What this lesson teaches
Children learn about shadows and how sunlight changes position throughout the day. This hands-on activity connects the concept of time with the natural movement of the sun, deepening their understanding of light and shadow.
Can you finish soaking up sunshine in about 30 min?
You will children learn about shadows and how sunlight changes position throughout the day.
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Children learn about shadows and how sunlight changes position throughout the day. This hands-on activity connects the concept of time with the natural movement of the sun, deepening their understanding of light and shadow.
By observing how the sun’s position creates different shadows, children engage in embodied cognition, allowing them to physically connect time with the natural world. This activity provides real-time visual feedback as they track shadows, reinforcing the concept of time during daylight.
1. Find a flat surface outside in sunlight. 2. Stick a pencil or stick vertically into the ground. 3. Place small stones around the pencil to mark where the shadow falls. 4. Observe the shadow every hour and mark new positions of the stones. 5. Draw a line connecting the stone marks to create a sundial. 6. Share your findings — how does the shadow change over time?