The abstract nature of physical science concepts often means that they are the most challenging for elementary students to grasp. Understanding how light behaves allows students to form a foundation for their future understanding. This month's trade books and activities engage students in basic concepts related to light.

December brings the winter solstice, the day with the shortest amount of sunlight for the northern hemisphere. Students can notice the pattern of days getting darker earlier across the United States up to this point and then notice as the amount of sunlight starts to increase in the following months. Through making observations and collecting data…

We describe the design of a simple homemade apparatus for the measurement of the refractive indices of liquids and demonstration of refraction. A circular transparent plastic tank and a lazy Susan are held concentrically. A laser pointer is mounted on the lazy Susan with its laser beam pointing radially through the centre of the plastic tank.…

Argues that the concept of optical activity is vague to students because it is difficult for instructors to demonstrate the phenomenon in the classroom. Presents a demonstration that allows students to observe and manipulate the optical path of polarized light through optically inactive and active solutions. (CCM)

Decscribes a project to make kaleidoscopes. (CCM)

Describes activities that test the preferences of stimuli of small insects such as light, sound, smell, and temperature. Experiments are carried out through the use of controlled and independent variables and a simple inexpensive apparatus. (DKM)

Presents a hands-on science activity in which students can explore interesting science concepts related to soap, light, and color. Includes materials, directions, and related questions. (SOE)

Activities that use a common fluorescent light as a strobe light to make things appear to slow down, speed up, or stand still are presented. Background information on strobe lights and directions for the activities are provided. (KR)

Describes the use of carbide lights as an excellent mechanism for introducing or reviewing many basic chemistry concepts including elements and compounds, endothermic and exothermic reactions, physical and chemical changes, and balancing chemical equations. (JRH)

Indicates the difficulties of teaching concepts beyond light and color and creating memorable learning experiences. Recommends sequential activities using the mystery box approach to explain how scientists and doctors use photon applications. (YDS)

Examines the simultaneous occurrence of ultraviolet light and the photoelectric effect. (CCM)

This book is designed to help teachers bolster their content knowledge by focusing on specific science concepts regarding the topic of light. The book covers three scientific models of light and discusses the observations that can be explained by each model. Chapters include: (1) "LightN-The Early Years"; (2) "Colorful Waves"; (3) "Focus, People,…

Discusses the principles behind holograms: the design and procedure to make either a reflection hologram or a transmission hologram, developing the hologram, safety precautions, and classroom applications. (JRH)

Provides a general description of chemiluminescence and distinguishes between the two types of chemistry that contribute to our understanding of chemiluminescence: fluorescence and the excitation process. Presents an activity that explores the phenomenon. (DDR)

Presents an activity that uses holiday lights to help students internalize the concept that white light contains a combination of all the colors of the rainbow. (JRH)