Grade 1 Light & Shadows — Printable No-Prep Worksheet

This worksheet provides first graders with targeted practice in understanding how shadows are formed. Students will apply the principle that light travels in straight lines to correctly draw the shadow of two different objects based on the position of the sun, reinforcing a foundational concept in physical science.

At a Glance

• Grade: 1 · Subject: Science
• Standard: 1-PS4-3 — Determine the effect of placing objects in the path of a light beam.
• Skill Focus: Light and Shadows
• Format: 1 page · 2 problems · Answer key included · PDF
• Best For: Introductory lesson, science centers, homework
• Time: 10–15 minutes

What's Inside

This single-page PDF contains a straightforward and visually engaging science worksheet. It features two distinct problems where students must draw an object's shadow relative to a depicted sun. The layout is clean and simple, designed to focus the learner on the core task without distraction. A complete answer key is included for easy grading or self-correction.

Zero-Prep Workflow

Designed for maximum efficiency, this worksheet can be integrated into your lesson with minimal effort. Simply print the required copies, distribute with clear instructions—"Draw the object's shadow"—and use the provided answer key for quick review. Total teacher preparation time is under two minutes, making it ideal for busy teachers or substitute folders.

Standards Alignment

This worksheet directly supports the Next Generation Science Standard 1-PS4-3, which involves understanding the effect of placing objects in the path of a light beam. While this activity is a representation rather than a hands-on investigation, it assesses the core conceptual understanding required by the standard. Standard codes can be copied directly into lesson plans or curriculum mapping tools.

How to Use It

This resource is highly flexible. Use it as a quick formative assessment after a hands-on lesson exploring shadows with flashlights. It also serves as an excellent "Do Now" activity to activate prior knowledge before a lesson on the sun's movement. Observe which students draw the shadow on the opposite side of the object from the sun to gauge understanding. Expected completion time is 10-15 minutes.

Who It's For

Created for first-grade students learning about light properties, this simple, direct task is accessible for all learners, including English Language Learners. For differentiation, pair this worksheet with a hands-on activity using a flashlight and small toys before students draw. This resource helps students meet NGSS standard 1-PS4-3 by predicting and representing shadow formation, applying the principle that a shadow is cast opposite the light source. This aligns with research on the importance of representational activities in early science education to build robust mental models, supporting later success in STEM fields. This activity provides a practical application of concepts often explored through inquiry-based learning.