First Grade · Science · week 17

Design a light signal

Design a simple light-based message system, using knowledge of light, shadows, and mirrors.

People have used light to send messages for a very long time, long before phones existed -- think of a lighthouse flashing, or ships blinking lamps at each other. This week you design your own light signal system.

A good light signal uses something you already know: a flashlight for the light itself, and maybe a mirror to redirect it, or your hand to block it and make a pattern, such as short and long flashes.

📋 For the teacher
Teach it (10–15 min):
  • Let your child invent the signal code themselves; your job is to be a willing partner testing it.
  • Try sending the signal with a mirror bounced around a corner as a bonus challenge, connecting back to week 14.
  • Talk about real light signals people use, such as lighthouses, traffic lights, or bike reflectors at night.
  • If the first signal is confusing, help your child simplify it rather than handing them the "right" answer.
Talk about it:
  • What does your light signal mean, and how did you invent it?
  • Did your partner understand your signal on the first try?
  • Where do people use real light signals in everyday life?

Mastery looks like: They design a light-based signal with a clear meaning and successfully send and receive it with a partner.

Common stumbles: Making the pattern too complicated to remember or count; forgetting to agree on what each signal means before testing.

Homework for this lessonType it, write it with a stylus, or print it for pencil & paper.open →
Records attendance + 15 min of Science for this learner.
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