In the Science Curriculum, students learn about Energy and Forces. One source of energy is light. Here are the learning objectives from Junior Infants to 6th class:
Junior/Senior Infants
- identify and name different colours
- sort objects into sets according to colour
- observe colours in the local environment
- explore dark and bright colours and become aware of different shades of colour
- discuss differences between day and night, light and shade
- explore how shadows are formed
1st/2nd Class
- recognise that light comes from different sources
- recognise that light is needed in order to see
- investigate the relationship between light and materials
- recognise that the sun gives us heat and light, without which we could not survive
- become aware of the dangers of looking directly at the sun
3rd/4th Class
- learn that light is a form of energy
- recognise that light comes from different natural and artificial sources
- investigate that light can be broken up into many different colours
- investigate the relationships between light and materials
- investigate how mirrors and other shiny surfaces are good reflectors of light
- recognise that the sun gives us heat and light, without which people and animals could not survive
- be aware of the dangers of looking directly at the sun
5th/6th Class
- learn that light is a form of energy
- know that light travels from a source
- investigate the splitting and mixing of light
- investigate the refraction of light
- investigate how mirrors and other shiny surfaces are good reflectors of light
- explore how objects may be magnified using simple lens or magnifier
- appreciate the importance of sight
- understand the role of sunlight in photosynthesis and appreciate that the sun gives us heat and light without which people and animals could not survive
- be aware of the dangers of excessive sunlight