English National Curriculum Science

5. Describe how lenses focus light

Mission Objectives

Explain what lenses do to light

Describe the process of light refraction through a lens, including concepts such as converging and diverging lenses, focal point and focal length

Build a refracting telescope

Rocket Words Quiz

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

convex lens

a lens that is thicker across its middle; it will converge rays of light that travel parallel to its principal axis

concave lens

a lens that is thinner across the middle and causes rays to diverge

refraction

the changing in direction of a wave due to a change in medium

focal point

the point at which parallel rays or waves converge after reflection or refraction, or the point from which diverging rays or waves appear to proceed

parallel

two lines which are side by side and always the same distance apart

This lesson has been written by

Kate Richards

Kate’s journey as a science educator spans over 15 enriching years. Her passion for unravelling the complexities of the human body led her away from medicine (as she hates blood but loves medical t-shows) and into the world of teaching. She’s had the privilege of nurturing young minds in KS3 and KS4 science, guiding A-level Biology students, and even taught year 4 students in Spain, broadening her teaching horizons early in her career. Kate holds a Masters in Teaching (MTeach) and specialises in biology. Her research for her Master's degree focused on the profound impact of self-efficacy on classroom learning. Beyond the classroom, she finds solace in leisurely family walks and exploring new destinations through travel. She finds that the most rewarding aspect of teaching is witnessing those magical "light bulb moments" when students grasp the intricacies of science right before her eyes. 

Required Resources

Resources: Handout, two lenses, inflexible ruler (the longer the better; a long piece of wood will suffice) and modelling clay/sticky tack.

Handout: Activities to accompany the Mission Assignment.

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