Using shadows to build 3D images

In this activity, students model how scientists interpret microscope data by using shadows of an object from different angles to build up a 3D image.

By the end of this activity, students should be able to:

• describe how they used shadow outlines of an object viewed from different angles to build up a 3D image

• explain how this process relates to actual data interpretation when using microscopes and other imaging techniques

• describe how 2D representations of 3D objects can be misleading.

Download the Word file (see link below) for:

• introduction/background notes

• what you need

• what to do

• discussion questions

• extension ideas.