oshc activities
Science Week / Bending Pencil Illusion

Bending Pencil Illusion

Children place a pencil in a glass of water and see it appear to bend, learning how light changes direction in water.

How to run it

  1. Fill clear cups or glasses with water.
  2. Place a pencil in each.
  3. Ask children to look from the side and describe what they see.
  4. Explain that light bends as it moves from water to air.

You will need

  • clear plastic cups
  • pencils
  • water
Make it easier or harderYounger children describe what they see, while older children test other liquids.
SafetyUse plastic cups to avoid breakage.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 4Children make observations and ask questions about how the world works.

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