Light Demonstrations (reflection and Refraction)

Students learned about light energy and how it travels. They observed light traveling in a straight line and realized that it will continue forever until matter gets into its way. Students also learned the difference between reflection and refraction. Light energy bounces off of something that is smooth and shiny. This is called reflection. Refraction is when light energy bends. This was demonstrated by putting a pencil in a beaker of water. The pencil appeared to bend or even break because of the refracted light. Also, water was added to the beaker which resulted in the sticker under the beaker disappearing.