Published: 2026-04-26
Shadows
Learners investigate the relationship between shadows, an object and a light source and begin to understand that the rotation of the Earth causes a change in length and direction of shadows.
SUBJECTScience, Social Studies
GRADE5th Grade
Learning Objectives
- I can represent data to reveal patterns of daily changes in length and direction of shadows (NGSS 5-ESS1-2).
Essential Questions
- What patterns does the movement of the Earth create?
- How can we represent this data? How else?
- Why do scientists use data?
- Why do you think there are different ways to represent the same data?
Lesson Plan
Point to the “Patterns” wall space that shows “Earth’s rotation - day & night” and ask learners to explain the rotation of the Earth and what pattern it creates in small groups of three or four. Encourage learners to use their bodies, hands or everyday objects (like pens or erasers) to better illustrate the pattern. Make sure to draw their attention to the fact that a pattern repeats.
Materials
INCLUDED MATERIALS
NEEDED MATERIALS
- Science journals
- Two prompts displayed on a slide or anchor chart
- Flashlights (10–15, depending on how many pairs)
- Classroom objects for casting shadows (pencils, erasers, etc.)
Get in Touch
We'd love to hear from educators, parents and students. Tell us how you're using Athl in your classroom — or how we can help.
We aim to respond within a few working days.