Some students believe a lens will not form an image if it is not whole
Light, Sound and Waves
Misconception
Resources to Address This
-
Thinking about actions to take: Seeing With Light (11-14)
Ref - SPT Li03TL06
This resource highlights a number of Teaching and Learning issues, such as --
exploring the phenomenon of refraction through many different examples.
Make sure the examples include a wide range of different lenses, especially some that are not whole.
View Resource
References
The following studies have documented this misconception:
- Kaltakci-Gurel, D., Eryilmaz, A. & McDermott, L. C. () Development and application of a four-tier test to assess pre-service physics teachers’ misconceptions about geometrical optics. Research in Science & Technological Education, 35 (2),
238-260,
https://doi.org/10.1080/02635143.2017.1310094. - Bryan, J. A. and Slough, S. W. () Converging lens simulation design and image predictions, Physics Education, 44 (3), https://doi.org/10.1088/0031-9120/44/3/006.
- Fetherstonhaugh, T. and Treagust, D. F. () Students’ Understanding of Light and Its Properties: Teaching to Engender Conceptual Change. Science Education, 76 (6),
653-672.