English National Curriculum - Science Science
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
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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
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.
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.
Expert film
Mission assignment film
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