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Grade 4 · Light and Sound · Light, Sound, and Waves

Follow Light and Sound

Light and sound are forms of energy, but they travel differently. Their interactions with materials explain many familiar effects and technologies.

Visual model

See how the ideas connect

Look · connect · explain
Start at the centre. Follow each line and explain how that idea belongs to Light, Sound, and Waves.

For students

Notice, predict, explain

Choose one part of the model. Predict how it connects to another part, then use the lesson evidence to explain your thinking.

For teachers

Pause for science talk

Show the model before the explanation. Ask “What do you notice?” and “What might change?” Then revisit student ideas after the worked example.

The big idea

Materials can transmit, absorb, reflect, or change energy

Light travels in straight paths and can reflect, refract, or be absorbed. Sound begins with vibration and travels through a medium as a wave.

Work it through

Compare a mirror and a padded wall

  1. Step 1 A mirror reflects much of the light that reaches its smooth surface.
  2. Step 2 Clear glass transmits light and can refract it when the light changes direction entering or leaving the material.
  3. Step 3 A hard wall can reflect sound and produce an echo.
  4. Step 4 Soft, porous padding absorbs more sound energy and reduces reflections in a room.