K2L25 Rainbow Architect
Lesson Duration: 45 minutes
Grade: K2
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Learning Objectives
- Children will be able to identify and arrange colours in the sequence of a rainbow
- Children will be able to improve their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination
- Children will be able to gain a basic understanding of light refraction and the phenomenon of light splitting into various colours
- Children will be able to apply problem-solving skills and creativity to construct stable structures that are both functional and visually appealing
Materials Needed:
- K'NEX rods and connectors in various colours
- A small flashlight or torch
- An old CD
- A baseboard or flat surface for building
- Construction paper (optional, for decoration)
- Photographs of real rainbows
- Song: I Love Science Song (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVXXIBe7Rwk)
Preparation
- Set up tables for children to sit in groups with the required materials.
- Arrange rainbow photographs for an inspiring display.
- Familiarize with the I Love Science Song to share in the children's joy.
- Familiarize with the related subject knowledge to ensure the smooth flow of the demonstration and explorations.
Lesson Procedure
1. Warm-up Singing (5 minutes)
- Fill the room with music and excitement!
- Play the I Love Science Song and guide our little scientists in song and dance. The I Love Science Song is our anthem for curiosity and joy.
Part 1: Building the Rainbow (15 minutes)
2. Preparation:
- Set up a flat building area with easy access to all materials.
- Briefly explain the concept of rainbows and their significance using pictures or illustrations.
3. Building the Rainbow:
- Step 1: Children select K'NEX rods in rainbow colours and connect them using connectors to form an arch, simulating a rainbow's shape.
- Step 2: Assist children in attaching the completed rainbow securely to the baseboard so it stands upright.
Part 2: Constructing the Light Stand and Observing Refraction (15 minutes) **
4. Building the Stand:
- Step 1: Suggest children to build a stand using K'NEX that will hold the flashlight at an angle aimed at the CD. Provide guidance and assistance in the process.
- Step 2: Remind children that the stand is stable and properly supports the flashlight.
5. Setting Up the Light Refraction Experiment:
- **Step 1: ** Place the CD shiny side up, positioned so that the flashlight beam can hit it when turned on.
- **Step 2: ** Dim other lights in the room, turn on the flashlight, and adjust its position to maximize the refraction effect, creating rainbow colours.
6. Observation and Discussion (5 minutes)
- Encourage children to observe the spectrum of colours and discuss how the bending of light creates such a diverse array of colours. Discuss the similarities and differences between the K'NEX rainbow and the light spectrum.
7. Tidy Up (5 minutes)
- Time to tidy up! Make it fun – who can be the neatest explorer?
- Reflect on the day's journey with a simple recap of their scientific adventure.
- Offer heartfelt praise for their efforts and the new knowledge they've gained.
- Remember, your enthusiasm is infectious! Bring energy and joy to the lesson.
- Be patient and offer guidance warmly to our young learners – they look up to you.
- Safety comes first, so keep a watchful eye as they handle their experiment tools.
- Encourage every attempt, celebrate every discovery, and nurture their growing minds.
- You're not just teaching; you're inspiring future scientists. Your support means the world to them.
Reference
Rainbow:
Rainbow Stand: