Explain why shadows are longer in the morning and evening compared to the afternoon.

In the morning and evening, the sun is at a lower angle, causing longer shadows. In the afternoon, the sun is more directly overhead, resulting in shorter shadows.

Shadows and the Sun's Position

4th Grade•35 minutes•NGSS 4-ESS1-1

Learning Objective

I can analyze how the position of the Sun affects the length and direction of shadows.

Key Concepts

A shadow is created when an opaque object blocks a light source.

Shadows cannot be created with transparent objects because light can pass through them.

The size and position of a shadow changes depending on the position of the light source, and shadows are longest in the morning and evening.

Practice Questions

This lesson includes 5 practice questions to reinforce learning.

View questions preview

1. What happens to the length of your shadow as the sun rises higher in the sky during the morning?

2. At what time of day is your shadow the shortest?

3. If you are facing north and the sun is setting on your right, in what direction will your shadow point?

...and 2 more questions

Educational Video

Light and Shadows, How are Shadows formed, What is a Shadow? Shadow, Transparent and Opaque Objects

NS LEARNING TOOLS

Learning Objective

Key Concepts

Practice Questions

Educational Video

Create Your Own Lesson