Just last week, student groups built physical models for how we see an object, indicating both the strengths and weaknesses of their models. This week we took a twist, and instead created a 2D model of how we see things. Each group had the same materials, and as scientists, we are working to build a consensus model for how we see things. The three images above are what the classes came up with. In a class discussion, we reflected upon why each model would or wouldn't be a good representation for how we see an object.
The class agreed that this model should be our consensus model. It correctly shows the light source (sun) giving off light towards the object we want to see AND many other directions! It also shows light reflecting off the object into our eyes, allowing us to see the object. Great thinking 6th grade! | This model correctly shows the light source (sun) giving off light towards the object we want to see. It also correctly shows light reflecting off the object into our eyes. Students recognized that while this is correct, it also fails to show that the light coming from the light source spans many directions and not just one. We also eliminated this model from building a consensus model. |