The middle image shows a grey rectangle, which represents a translucent material. No arrows are seen on the right side of the black rectangle. Yellow arrows pointing toward the black rectangle from the left symbolize the incident light. The left image shows a black rectangle, which represents an opaque material. As a result, it is not possible to see through an opaque material the only thing you will be able to see is darkness. Others reflect most or some of the incident light. Some of these materials look dark and tend to get warm when left exposed to light.

Opaque materials do not let any light pass through (Figure 1, left). Even if the object itself is not clearly visible, you will still be able to see light as brightness through a translucent material. Although you can see through a translucent material, the scattering of the light results in a blurry image of any object that is placed behind a translucent material. A translucent material also allows light to pass through, but the transmitted light is scattered in all directions (Figure 1, middle). Transparent materials themselves appear clear, which is why you can clearly see any object behind a transparent material.

Materials that let all or most of the light pass through are called transparent (Figure 1, right). When a material transmits light, it allows light to pass through. Materials can transmit, absorb, scatter, or reflect light. These classifications are based on how the materials interact with light that shines on them. We can categorize materials by their appearance, like transparent, translucent, or opaque dark or light colored glossy or matte finish, etc. Simple tests can be designed to gather evidence to support or refute student ideas about causes. Some materials allow light to pass through them, others allow only some light through and others block all the light and create a dark shadow on any surface beyond them, where the light cannot reach. Make observations (firsthand or from media) and/or measurements to collect data that can be used to make comparisons.Ĭompare predictions (based on prior experiences) to what occurred (observable events).Ĭonstruct an argument with evidence to support claim. Planning and Carrying out Investigations. This lesson focuses on these aspects of NGSS Three Dimensional Learning: Science & Engineering Practices Plan and conduct investigations to determine the effect of placing objects made with different materials in the path of a beam of light. This lesson helps students prepare for these Next Generation Science Standards Performance Expectations:

Conduct an investigation to find out if a material is translucent, transparent, or opaque.

Explain the difference between translucent, transparent, and opaque materials.

End the lesson with discussion over a video call during the Reflect section. A set of materials can be prepared in advance or students can use materials found around the house. The Engage section of the lesson can be done over a video call, then students can work individually and independently during the Explore section, using the Student Worksheet as a guide. This lesson plan can be conducted remotely. In doing that, students will realize that different materials allow different amounts of light to pass through. They will place a variety of materials in front of an illuminated object and predict if and how well they will be able to see the object through the material sheet. In this lesson, students explore firsthand what transparent, translucent, and opaque mean, and how they are related to light.

Translucent and transparent