Long before clocks and watches existed, people used the Sun to tell time. By observing how shadows changed throughout the day, they created one of the world’s earliest timekeeping tools—the sundial! In this Mini Spark, you will learn how sundials work and make one of your own.
Spark your thinking!
1. Set up your Early Enrichment mini spark recording page: # 45: Sundials: Telling Time with Shadows
2. Watch this video about sundials.
As you watch, write down:
- Two facts you learned about sundials.
- One question you still have.
3. Learn how to make a sundial:
https://www.pbs.org/parents/crafts-and-experiments/diy-sundial
Record the materials you will need to collect.
4. With an adult’s help, create your own sundial.
Place your sundial outside on a sunny day.
Observe it at different times during the day.
Record:
- The time you checked it.
- Where the shadow pointed.
- Any changes you noticed.
- Take pictures of your sundial doing its job!
- Include at least two pictures taken at different times of the day.
OPTIONAL: If you can not make your own sundial, read the information page and write a sentence about what would be the easiest part about making a sundial, the hardest part, and one question you still have about sundials.
5. Submit your completed Mini Spark notebook pages, observations, and photos to your teacher or EY Coordinator.
Learn more about shadows in this mini spark.
Complete the Shadow Badge at the EY Website.
