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What are the important information for MOE/SEAB Primary Syllabus | Primary 4 Science Light and Shadows 2027: 30 Worked Reflection, Transparency and Fair-Test Questions

Primary 4 Science light questions ask children to explain what light does, how shadows form and why some materials allow light to pass while others block it. A shadow is a region that receives less light because an object blocks a source. Transparent materials let light through so objects can be seen clearly; translucent materials transmit some light without a clear view; opaque materials block it. Reflection changes the direction of light. This 2027 guide contains 30 original worked situations with the evidence needed for good Science answers.

MOE sets the Primary Science syllabus, while individual primary schools choose their P4 assessment tasks and dates. The examples here use safe classroom-style setups and do not claim to predict a national examination question. The best preparation is to identify the light source, object, screen and relative positions, then distinguish observation from explanation. A pupil who memorises ‘light travels in straight lines’ without tracing the actual path may still answer a new diagram incorrectly.

  • Light from a source travels through space and can be blocked by objects.
  • A shadow forms where an object prevents light from reaching a region.
  • Transparent, translucent and opaque describe different light transmission.
  • Reflection changes light direction; mirrors reflect light in an orderly way.
  • An object can be seen when light from it or reflected by it reaches the eyes.
  • Shadow size and position depend on the relative geometry of source, object and screen.
  • Fair tests change one relevant factor and keep other conditions comparable.
  • Never look directly at the Sun or use unsafe high-powered light sources in a child’s experiment.

A clear explanation of shadow formation

Imagine a torch, a small opaque toy and a white screen in a line. The torch sends light toward the screen. The toy blocks some of the rays, so the region behind the toy receives less light and appears as a shadow. Moving the toy changes which rays are blocked and where they land. A child should identify the source and obstruction before predicting the shadow. A picture that shows a dark region alone does not explain the mechanism.

When a pupil moves the toy closer to a torch while keeping the screen fixed, the projected shadow can become larger. If the toy is moved toward the screen, its shadow can become smaller. These observations assume a particular torch-and-screen arrangement and a reasonably compact source. Do not generalise that every object always produces the same shadow regardless of source size, distance and background illumination.

Thirty original worked light questions

Worked question 1: A torch shines at a wall with no object in between.

Answer: A bright region appears on the wall. Reasoning: Light travels from the source to the wall. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 2: An opaque book blocks torchlight.

Answer: A shadow forms behind the book. Reasoning: The book prevents light from passing through it. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 3: A transparent clear pane is placed in the light path.

Answer: Most light passes through; objects behind can be seen clearly. Reasoning: Transparent does not mean invisible or no reflection. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 4: A translucent sheet is held in front of a torch.

Answer: Some light passes but details behind are unclear. Reasoning: Translucent differs from transparent. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 5: An opaque cardboard sheet blocks a beam.

Answer: Little or no light passes through in the ordinary school setup. Reasoning: Opaque materials block light. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 6: A pupil moves a toy closer to the torch.

Answer: Its shadow on a fixed screen can become larger. Reasoning: Geometry of source, object and screen matters. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 7: The same toy is moved closer to the screen.

Answer: Its shadow can become smaller under a fixed torch setup. Reasoning: The distances must be compared consistently. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 8: A mirror redirects a torch beam.

Answer: Reflection changes the direction of light. Reasoning: A mirror is not producing the original torchlight. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 9: A shiny metal spoon reflects a visible image.

Answer: Its smooth reflective surface redirects light. Reasoning: The image may be distorted by the curved surface. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 10: A rough wall reflects light in many directions.

Answer: Diffuse reflection lets the wall be seen. Reasoning: Reflection is not limited to mirrors. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 11: A pupil sees a book under a lamp.

Answer: Light from the lamp reflects from the book into the eyes. Reasoning: The book need not emit its own light. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 12: A torch is switched off in a completely dark room.

Answer: The torch no longer emits light. Reasoning: Other light sources could still illuminate the room. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 13: A child sees their reflection in a mirror.

Answer: Light from the child reflects off the mirror to the eyes. Reasoning: The mirror is not a second child. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 14: A red filter is placed before a white torch.

Answer: Transmitted light may appear red. Reasoning: The filter changes which wavelengths pass. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 15: Two torches shine from different directions at a toy.

Answer: More than one shadow may appear. Reasoning: Each source can create its own shadow geometry. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 16: The torch is raised while the object remains fixed.

Answer: The shadow’s position may change. Reasoning: The relative positions of source and object determine it. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 17: A pupil says a shadow is always black.

Answer: Shadows are regions receiving less light; appearance depends on other illumination. Reasoning: Avoid absolute colour claims. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 18: A pupil says clear glass produces no reflection.

Answer: Clear glass can transmit and reflect some light. Reasoning: Transparency and reflection are not mutually exclusive. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 19: A torch shines through clean water in a clear container.

Answer: Light can pass through the transparent medium. Reasoning: The container and water may also refract light. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 20: A pupil puts coloured plastic between torch and wall.

Answer: The observed light colour and brightness may change. Reasoning: Material properties affect transmission. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 21: A pupil compares two shadows but changes torch distance and object size.

Answer: The test is not controlled. Reasoning: Change one factor to isolate its effect. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 22: A pupil tests opaque and transparent objects of the same size.

Answer: Their light transmission differs. Reasoning: Use the same light source and setup. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 23: A ruler is held upright before a fixed torch.

Answer: Its shadow changes if the angle changes. Reasoning: Orientation affects the projected shape. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 24: A mirror is placed behind an opaque card.

Answer: The card may block light from reaching the mirror. Reasoning: Trace the light path rather than assume reflection. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 25: A smooth mirror and rough paper are illuminated.

Answer: Both reflect light, but differently. Reasoning: Specular and diffuse reflection differ. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 26: A pupil sees a shadow even in daylight.

Answer: Sunlight can be blocked by an opaque object. Reasoning: Daylight is still a source of light. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 27: The Sun is low in the sky.

Answer: A vertical object often casts a longer ground shadow. Reasoning: Compare with the same object and ground conditions. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 28: The Sun is higher overhead.

Answer: A vertical object’s ground shadow is often shorter. Reasoning: The angle of incoming light matters. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 29: A pupil says a shadow is an object.

Answer: A shadow is a region with reduced illumination. Reasoning: It has no material substance like the blocking object. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Worked question 30: A child wants to compare shadow sizes at three distances.

Answer: Measure consistently with one torch, object and screen. Reasoning: Keep all conditions except distance comparable. Identify the source of light, the relevant material and the position of any screen or observer. A scientifically useful response connects the observed result to the light path instead of simply saying ‘because of the shadow’ or ‘because of the mirror’.

Try a second scenario by moving the source, changing only the material or using a different screen position. Predict what will change and explain what stays constant. If the pupil cannot justify the prediction, draw the light path and use a safe classroom demonstration. A new example helps reveal whether the child has understood the principle or memorised the first answer.

Transparent, translucent and opaque: the classification test

A clear glass pane is transparent because objects behind it can be seen clearly under suitable lighting. Frosted glass is translucent because it lets some light through but obscures details. Cardboard is opaque in an ordinary school light test because it blocks transmission. The distinction is about how light passes, not whether an object is hard, soft, shiny or expensive. A polished opaque surface can reflect strongly without becoming transparent.

Ask the child to compare three safe materials using the same torch and background. Record whether a clear image can be seen through each material, whether light is transmitted and whether a shadow is formed. Keep the source and distance comparable. Do not conclude that every sheet of plastic is transparent; plastics can be transparent, translucent or opaque depending on the product.

Reflection is not the same as transmission

A mirror redirects incoming light. A transparent window lets much light pass and also reflects some. A rough wall scatters reflected light in many directions. These are different interactions with the same incoming light. The child should identify whether the question asks what passes through, what bounces away or what is blocked. A single material can have more than one of these behaviours.

When a pupil sees their face in a mirror, light from the face reaches the mirror and reflects to the eyes. The mirror does not create the person’s face or generate the original illumination. A curved reflective spoon may show a distorted image because its surface shape changes the directions of reflected rays. This is a useful everyday connection, though advanced mirror equations are unnecessary for ordinary P4 reasoning.

Five frequent mistakes

Mistake 1: the shadow is a black object

A shadow is a region receiving less illumination, not a solid object that can be picked up. Its appearance depends on ambient light, background and the obstruction. If two light sources illuminate a scene, the shadow can have different regions of darkness. Teach the pupil to describe reduced light rather than say the object ‘produces black colour’.

Mistake 2: only mirrors reflect

Many ordinary surfaces reflect light. Mirrors reflect in a more orderly way that can form recognisable images; rough surfaces scatter light. We see many non-luminous objects because reflected light reaches our eyes. A pupil who says a book is visible because it ‘makes light’ needs to revisit the role of the lamp or Sun.

Mistake 3: every clear object is invisible

Clear glass can be seen because of its edges, reflections and interactions with light. Transparent means light passes sufficiently for a clear view, not that the material has no optical effect. A window can transmit much light and still show a faint reflection.

Mistake 4: changing two variables proves one cause

If a student changes both torch distance and object size, a change in shadow size cannot be attributed solely to distance. A fair test changes one relevant factor while controlling the others. Use the same object and screen for distance comparisons, and record the actual result.

Mistake 5: light only travels when we can see the beam

Light can travel through clear air even when the path is not visibly outlined. A beam becomes easier to see when particles scatter some light toward the observer. Do not assume invisible beam paths mean there is no light. A simple ray diagram can represent the direction without claiming that drawn lines are physical objects.

A 14-day revision plan

Days 1–2: Sources, paths and shadows.

Use a short explanation, a safe model or a drawing, and one new question. Evidence of progress: Child explains why a blocked region is darker. Ask the child to identify the source, obstruction and observer. A correct answer should include the relevant light path and avoid unsupported claims.

Days 3–4: Transparent, translucent and opaque.

Use a short explanation, a safe model or a drawing, and one new question. Evidence of progress: Child classifies by transmission, not appearance. Ask the child to identify the source, obstruction and observer. A correct answer should include the relevant light path and avoid unsupported claims.

Days 5–6: Reflection and visibility.

Use a short explanation, a safe model or a drawing, and one new question. Evidence of progress: Child traces light to the eye. Ask the child to identify the source, obstruction and observer. A correct answer should include the relevant light path and avoid unsupported claims.

Days 7: Delayed correction of misconceptions.

Use a short explanation, a safe model or a drawing, and one new question. Evidence of progress: Child explains a new scenario. Ask the child to identify the source, obstruction and observer. A correct answer should include the relevant light path and avoid unsupported claims.

Days 8–9: Shadow size and position.

Use a short explanation, a safe model or a drawing, and one new question. Evidence of progress: Child identifies geometry that changed. Ask the child to identify the source, obstruction and observer. A correct answer should include the relevant light path and avoid unsupported claims.

Days 10–11: Fair-test variables.

Use a short explanation, a safe model or a drawing, and one new question. Evidence of progress: Child controls source, object and screen. Ask the child to identify the source, obstruction and observer. A correct answer should include the relevant light path and avoid unsupported claims.

Days 12: Interpreting observations.

Use a short explanation, a safe model or a drawing, and one new question. Evidence of progress: Child distinguishes evidence from inference. Ask the child to identify the source, obstruction and observer. A correct answer should include the relevant light path and avoid unsupported claims.

Days 13–14: Mixed diagrams and word questions.

Use a short explanation, a safe model or a drawing, and one new question. Evidence of progress: Child answers without a memorised model. Ask the child to identify the source, obstruction and observer. A correct answer should include the relevant light path and avoid unsupported claims.

How to write a full-mark-style scientific explanation

Start with the observation, then state the mechanism. For example: ‘The shadow became larger when the toy was moved closer to the torch because the toy blocked a wider spread of light rays before they reached the fixed screen.’ This connects the changed distance with the observed shadow. Avoid adding unnecessary facts about the colour of the toy unless they matter to the question.

If a task asks for a fair-test improvement, state which factor should remain the same and why. For example: ‘Use the same torch, screen and toy, and change only the distance between the torch and toy.’ A statement such as ‘Make it fair’ is not an explanation. Scientific language becomes useful when it identifies an action and its purpose.

Frequently asked questions

What causes a shadow?

An object blocks some light from reaching a region.

Can a transparent object reflect light?

Yes. Transparency and reflection can occur together.

Is frosted glass transparent?

It is usually translucent because light passes but details are unclear.

Do only mirrors reflect?

No. Many surfaces reflect light, though they do so differently.

Why does a shadow change size?

The relative positions of the light source, object and screen can change its projection.

Can pupils look at the Sun to study shadows?

No. Never look directly at the Sun; use safe observation methods.

Is there a national P4 Science exam?

No. P4 assessments are school-based.

Are these official 2027 questions?

No. They are original teaching scenarios.

Official sources and further reading

The next useful exercise

Draw one torch, one opaque object and a screen. Ask the child where the shadow forms and why. Then replace the object with a translucent material and ask what changes. Finally, move the object and predict the new shadow. A learner who can explain each change using light transmission and geometry is ready for unfamiliar school diagrams.