Some students may believe light can change direction or travel a curved path without anything externally influencing it
Light, Sound and Waves
Misconception
Resources to Address This
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In straight lines (5-11)
Ref - SPT HS01 TA10
The notion of light travelling in straight lines may seem obvious to many of the children. You might wish to explore an imaginary scenario which involves the light from the source bending around the ball. What would the shadow on the screen look like then?
View Resource
References
The following studies have documented this misconception:
- Selley, N. J. () Children's ideas on light and vision. International Journal of Science Education, ISSN: 0950-0693 (Print),
1464-5289.
- Heywood, D. S. () Primary Trainee Teachers’ Learning and Teaching About Light: Some pedagogic implications for initial teacher training. International Journal of Science Education, 27 (12),
1447-1475.