Science·Waves, Light & Sound·conceptual
Reflection & Refraction
State the law of reflection (angle of incidence = angle of reflection) and explain refraction as the change in speed and direction when light crosses a boundary between two media; apply ray diagrams for plane mirrors and refracting surfaces
Suggested ages 11–12
Evidence of understanding
- States the law of reflection and applies it to draw a reflected ray correctly
- Draws a ray diagram for a plane mirror showing a virtual image
- Explains why a pencil looks bent in a glass of water using refraction
- Explains qualitatively why light bends towards the normal when entering a denser medium
Assessment prompt
If Reflection & Refraction put a straw in a glass of water and it looked bent at the surface, could they explain why that happens — drawing a diagram to show the path of light at the water’s surface?
Standards alignment
KS3.Sci.Phys.Waves.1GB · uk-nc-2013
Properties of Waves
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3
KS3.Sci.Phys.Waves.4GB · uk-nc-2013
Wave Interactions and Sight
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3