Solve a Mirror Maze Challenge with the Law of Reflection
- Understand and explain the law of reflection.
- Guide a light beam through a maze using mirrors.
- Construct and describe a diagram of the light's path as it bounces off reflective surfaces.
Part 1 of this lesson is based on the "Reflection on Light" activity from California State University, Long Beach.
OverviewWhen light interacts with an object, it can be absorbed, transmitted, or reflected. This lesson focuses on materials that reflect light. Specifically, students will use mirrors and flashlights to investigate how light is reflected from a surface. By doing that, they will discover that when a light ray hits a reflective surface, its angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection, which is stated by the law of reflection. Students will then use their gained knowledge in a mirror maze challenge where they have to find a way to guide a light beam through a maze in order to hit a specific target. Remote Learning: This lesson plan can be conducted remotely. The Engage section of the lesson can be done over a video call, then students can work individually and independently during the Explore sections, using the student worksheet and the maze template as guide. A set of materials can be prepared in advance or students can use materials found around the house. For example, old CDs can work as mirror replacements. The Reflect sections can be done over another video call. Students can show their final design solution either on the call or they can share pictures or drawings of their designs on a class drive. NGSS AlignmentThis lesson helps students prepare for these Next Generation Science Standards Performance Expectations:
Materials![]() Per Student Group of 2–3:
For Teacher:
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Grade Range
6th-8th
Group Size
2-3 students
Active Time
Part 1: 1 hour, 10 minutes; Part 2: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Total Time
Part 1: 1 hour, 10 minutes; Part 2: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Area of Science
Physics
Key Concepts
Light, light reflection
Credits
Svenja Lohner, PhD, Science Buddies
Part 1 of this lesson is based on the "Reflection on Light" activity from California State University, Long Beach. Learning Objectives
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