Science Learning Hub logo
TopicsConceptsCitizen scienceTeacher PLDGlossary
Sign in
Image

Changes to a shadow’s size and shape

Set of images showing changes to a spoon's shadow’s size & shape

The angle at which a light strikes an object affects the size and shape of its shadow. Shadows are longer when the light source is at a low angle (side on) and shorter when the light source is at a higher angle (overhead).

In this set of images, the red X marks the light source and the yellow arrow shows the direction of the light.

Glossary

Rights: The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato
Published: 23 May 2019Size: 139.67 KB
Referencing Hub media

Explore related content

Appears inRelated resources
Investigating shadows

Activity

Investigating shadows

In this set of activities, students are introduced to basic Physical World concepts about light through the use of play ...

Read more
Light and shadows

Article

Light and shadows

When children draw pictures of the Sun, they often show rays radiating outwards – similar to the image below.

Read more
Alternative conceptions about light and shadows

Teacher PLD

Alternative conceptions about light and shadows

Children naturally and instinctively develop their own ideas about how things work. These self-developed concepts make sense to the individual ...

Read more
Investigating shadows and the position of the Sun

Activity

Investigating shadows and the position of the Sun

In this activity, students use scientific models and exploration to observe the position of the Sun and its physical effect ...

Read more

See our newsletters here.

NewsEventsAboutContact usPrivacyCopyrightHelp

The Science Learning Hub Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao is funded through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's Science in Society Initiative.

Science Learning Hub Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao © 2007-2025 The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato