Shadow Showdown
Episode 41 Planet: Light & Colour
Learning concept of the episode: Shadows are caused by blocking light – the shape and orientation of the object blocking the light help determine the shape of the shadow. Also, making shapes with your hands can result in shadow pictures.
Story Summary
Bing and Bong have tickets for the cinema. En route, the low evening sun casts giant shadows of the two. At first Bong is frightened, but Bing quickly shows Bong how to have fun with the shadows. When they arrive at the theatre, the Flocker responsible for the Robot Projector has nodded off, causing the film to unwind and the projector to turn over! Bing gets to work at remedying the situation. Bong finds a spotlight that points to the screen and Bing and Bong begin a shadow puppet routine. The Flockers honk with glee at the spectacle while the Loudspeaker Robot adds an accompanying soundtrack.
Focus Early Learning Goal
Creative Development 3: Use their imagination in art, design, music, dance, imaginative and role play and stories.
Linked ELGs
PSE3, PSE4, KU3, KU7, P7, C1
Preparation
- Watch the Tiny Planets episode
- Read the Tiny Planets book
- Talk about what Bing and Bong did in the story
Talk about…..
- What animal shapes Bing and Bong had created
- Ask the children how they think shadows are made
- Going to the cinema
Focus Activity
Making shadows (see overleaf)
Follow-on Activities
- Use natural sunlight to explore making shadows outdoors
- Water painting on paved areas or on wipe-clean tables
- Imaginative play with puppets
- Create a show with puppets or shadows like Bing and Bong did
Making Shadows
Aim
To create and explore shadows
Resources
- Spotlight
- Overhead projector
- Projector screen
- Light smooth surface
- Shapes and props to experiment making silhouettes
Guidelines
- Either work behind a screen with the projector or using a spotlight on to a surface so that children can see the shadow they are making
- Start with simple hand shapes and move on to more complicated images with props once children have understood the concept
- At first children will need close guidance but will soon bring their own ideas.
Key Vocabulary
Shadow, silhouette, projector, light, dark
Health & Safety
If this is new equipment to your setting, undertake a risk assessment for the activity; ensure all electrical equipment is safe to use and that wires are not trailing. Explain to children that the lights are a source of heat and can be very hot and ensure supervision is sufficient.
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