Resource Library

Observing the Sun and Shadows Assessment

Grades: 5th Grade

Subjects: Science

Standards: Apply tools, techniques, and materials in a safe manner as part of the design process. (3.5.3-5.R.), Practice successful design skills. (3.5.3-5.Q.), Make and communicate observations and measurements to identify materials based on their properties. (3.2.5.B.)

Student Instructions

1. Look at the images showing the sun's position at different times and complete the table about where the sun is located. 2. Use the table to decide if the given sentences about the sun's location are true or false. 3. Look at the shadow length table and decide if the sentences about shadow patterns are true or false. 4. Answer the question about what you expect a shadow to look like at 5:00 pm.

Teacher Notes (not visible to students)

This lesson helps students understand the daily movement of the sun and how it affects shadows. Use the images and tables to guide students in observing patterns and making predictions. Encourage students to explain their reasoning when deciding if statements are true or false. The activity supports NGSS standard 5-ESS1-2 by focusing on analyzing and interpreting data related to Earth's rotation and solar patterns. Teachers can extend the lesson by having students create their own shadow clocks and record observations at different times of day.

Teachers, save “Observing the Sun and Shadows Assessment” to assign it to your class.

Observing the Sun and Shadows Assessment