This learning resource is available in interactive and printable formats. The interactive worksheet can be played online and assigned to students. The Printable PDF version can be downloaded and printed for completion by hand.
This 250-word reading passage introduces Grade 4 students to the foundational concept of how we see colors, aligned with NGSS standard PS4.B. Students explore why objects appear in different colors by learning that objects reflect certain colors of light while absorbing others. The passage uses relatable examples like red apples, yellow bananas, and white paper to help students understand light reflection and light absorption. Through clear explanations and age-appropriate language, students discover that a red apple looks red because it reflects red light to our eyes while absorbing other colors. The passage includes audio integration to support diverse learners and features bolded vocabulary terms with immediate definitions. Supplementary activities include multiple-choice questions testing science facts and comprehension, writing prompts requiring students to explain and apply concepts, and graphic organizers for visual learning. A simplified differentiated version ensures accessibility for students reading below grade level. Spanish translations of both versions support English language learners. This comprehensive resource builds foundational understanding of light and color, preparing students for hands-on investigations and deeper exploration of physical science concepts related to waves and their applications.
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Objects appear colored because of how they interact with light. Image credit Ennie Horvath / Pexels.
Light is a form of energy that we can see. White light from the sun or a lamp contains all the colors mixed together. When light hits an object, something interesting happens that determines what color we see.
Objects appear colored because of how they interact with light. When light shines on an object, the object reflects some colors of light, which means those colors bounce off the object and travel to our eyes. At the same time, the object absorbs other colors of light, which means those colors are taken in and do not bounce back. The color we see is the color that reflects to our eyes.
A red apple looks red because it reflects red light to our eyes while absorbing all the other colors like blue, green, and yellow. Think of it like a ball bouncing off a wall—the red light bounces off the apple to reach your eyes. A yellow banana reflects yellow light and absorbs other colors. This is why the banana appears yellow.
White objects, like a piece of white paper, reflect all colors of light. That is why white looks so bright. Black objects absorb all colors of light and reflect almost none. This is why black objects appear dark.
Understanding reflection and absorption helps us know why objects have the colors we see every day.
What does white light contain?
Only red and blue colorsAll colors mixed togetherNo colors at allOnly dark colors
Why does a red apple look red?
It absorbs red lightIt reflects all colorsIt reflects red lightIt absorbs white light
What happens when light is absorbed?
It bounces to our eyesIt is taken in the objectIt becomes brighterIt turns white
What color reflects all light colors?
BlackRedWhiteYellow
A yellow banana absorbs which colors?
Only yellow lightAll colors except yellowNo colors at allOnly white light
Black objects absorb almost all light colors.
TrueFalse
Why do black objects appear dark?
They reflect all lightThey absorb most lightThey have no colorThey create new colors
What does 'reflects' mean in this passage?
Light is taken into objectLight disappears completelyLight bounces off objectLight changes color
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