Science · 20 minutes · 6–10 years

Follow a shadow

Observe how light position changes a shadow.

All you need

An adult-held torch, book and clear wall.

Grown-up, read this first

Never shine into eyes or look at the sun. Keep walking space lit. Adult handles torch and batteries.

Adapt to your child’s needs and stop if uncomfortable.

Let’s give it a go

Step ticks are temporary for this tab session. You can read every step without ticking.

A question to take with you

What stayed the same in your test?

Talk it through or draw on paper. There is no answer box or personal information to submit.

Make it gentler

Make a hand shadow with a fixed torch.

Take it further

Measure two shadow sizes with a paper strip.