Teaching tools > Electromagnetic spectrum > Overview: Electromagnetic spectrum Q&A

Description:

Q&A: Light, color, and the electromagnetic spectrum is a series of questions and answers about the electromagnetic spectrum written for teachers and students. The questions are ones that students might ask while studying the electromagnetic spectrum. Teachers can use this Q&A to gain additional knowledge about the electromagnetic spectrum, or use it in the classroom as outlined below.

Format(s) available: Printer-friendly web page

Grades: Adaptable, at teacher's discretion

Teachers can use Q&A: Light, color, and the electromagnetic spectrum as:

• An engagement activity. Use selected questions to start a discussion.

• An inquiry tool. Use selected questions and answers to help students generate questions. Propose a question, such as "What is the electromagnetic spectrum?" (see question 1 in Q&A: Light, color and the electromagnetic spectrum). Have students read the answer to the question and write down 3–5 questions they would like answered as a result of reading the material.

• A source of information. Students can use the questions and answers as part of their research on the electromagnetic spectrum.

• A form of review. Use the questions as a review at the end of a unit on the electromagnetic spectrum.

• A follow-up. Have students read the questions and answers to gain additional information about the electromagnetic spectrum following a related activity.

• A starting point for a debate. "How do the truths of astronomy compare to the other sciences?" This idea is addressed in the question "What information can light reveal about the stars?" (see question 7 in Q&A: Light, color, and the electromagnetic spectrum).

Related materials

Online exploration: Star Light, Star Bright

HubbleSite — Behind the Pictures:
http://hubblesite.org/sci.d.tech/behind_the_pictures/

Teaching tools > Electromagnetic spectrum > Overview: Electromagnetic spectrum Q&A