Solar Ovens: Choosing Colors
Intended Grade Level(s):
4-5
Learning Goal(s):
Students will learn that darker colors absorb more sunlight and get warmer. Students will understand the relation of absorption to thermal radiation emission. Students will conduct an experiment that isolates color as a variable to test.
Unit:
Lesson Number:
11
Pedagogy & Practice:
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
Other Subjects Covered:
Estimated Activity Length:
50 min
Description:
Students will conduct experiments using different colors of paper. During this process, they will make observations about the functionality of different colors when incorporated into design in relation to reflection and absorption. Students will use what they learn to build their solar ovens.
Other Material(s) Used:
• One thermometer per student • One timer • 5 different colors of paper, one per student (Only need to be big enough to cover the “mercury” on the thermometer. Black, white, and 3 other colors.)
