Shadow Clocks

Children are fascinated by shadows.

Why are they sometimes long and sometimes short? Do they change direction? Why?

This investigation explores what happens as the sun moves round during the day.

You start by exploring the compass points then make a giant 'shadow clock' to record where the shadow is. Then you go out several times on a sunny day and record it.

After that there are all sorts of interesting discussions about how quickly the shadow moves round and why it gets longer and shorter.

A good investigation to do if you are learning about 'Planet Earth'.

Ages 8-12    Printable materials (pdf) - 3 pages of teachers' notes and 5 pupil copymasters.