Opaque, Translucent and Transparent

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

You might know that shadows are created when light runs into an object, like a person, and cannot pass through it. Humans, animals and other dense objects that do not allow light to pass through them are called opaque.

• Can you think of more materials or objects that might be opaque?

Thin papers like tissue paper, notebook paper, and even paper towels are capable of letting some light through them. Materials like these are called translucent.

• Can you think of other materials or objects that might be translucent?

Finally, materials like plastic wrap, clear glass, and air allow all light to travel through them. Materials that allow all light to pass through are called transparent.

• Can you think of other materials or objects that allow light to completely pass through them?

After you have a few ideas, watch Transparent Translucent Opaque (WITH EXAMPLES), from MooMooMath and Science:

• Were any of the examples you thought of in the video?

Head over to the Got It? section to keep going!