Welcome back to Fun Sparks! This week we have another Christmas-themed post!
Today we are going to look at shiny and matte surfaces and how we can tell the difference. A really simple activity that is perfect for this time of year!
Basically shiny surfaces reflect light well, and matte surfaces don’t.
You will need:
A flashlight
Shiny items, for example:
- tinsel
- foil wrapping paper
- ornaments
- metallic ribbon
- bells
- metallic Christmas cards
- glittery items.
Dull items, for example:
- felt Christmas stocking
- flat-toned wrapping paper
- miniature Christmas wreath
- candle
- ornaments made of fabric
- ribbon
Method
Mix the objects up on a tray and create two piles…shiny and dull. Shine the flashlight onto each of the objects and see how well it reflects light (the light bouncing off) to see which is shiny and which is dull. It is really a very simple preschool sorting activity, but the importance of shiny and matt surfaces links into thermal radiation and absorption of heat later on in teaching, and we will do a practical in the new year to look at this!
So have a go and Have fun!
Last Updated on February 20, 2023 by Emma Vanstone
Hi Kerry, very happy for you to link our parachute to your parachute investigation 🙂 sounds like it will be interesting and fun! Warm wishes, Kelly
great…will let you know when I do it! 🙂
I have to say, I really do love how you explore the world with your little ones! Such lovely experiments for them to get excited about!
Thank you for linking to Kids Get Crafty.
Maggy
Thanks Maggy!