Electromagnetic Spectrum

Grades 6-8

Students will explore properties of light as they block, bounce, and bend light from different sources. Through observation and experimentation with diffraction gratings students will discover that each element produces a unique spectrum. They will develop an understanding of how scientists use light waves to identify elements.

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Vocabulary
electromagnetic spectrum, visible spectrum, prism, refract, reflect, incandescent, fluorescent, diffraction grating

Lesson Objectives
1) Demonstrate an understanding of the properties of light; particularly that white light can be separated into a visible spectrum.
2) Observe that different colors of light have different wavelengths.
3) Use spectroscopes to view the unique spectrums of different elements.

National Science Education Standards
Content Standard A- Science as Inquiry
Content Standard B- Physical Science
Content Standard D- Earth and Space Science
New York State Learning Standards
Math, Science, Technology Standards 1, 4

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