PROJECT SUMMARY
Through the creation of the "magic magnifying glass," the concept of anaglyph images was explored with first-grade students. We used the theory of light filter absorption to conduct a simple experiment: writing and decoding "secret messages." This approach also serves as a fun way for students to practice reading and writing short messages.
WHY?
Out of the ideas that were proposed to the students, this project was selected because it generated a lot of curiosity and interest.
HOW?
For the creation of the magic magnifying glasses, the following recycled materials were used: cardboard, popsicle sticks, and red cellophane paper. Part of what would be the magnifying glass was cut with the laser cutter, and the students finished it with popsicle sticks and personalized decorations. Each student assembled the parts of the magnifying glass and decorated it according to their creativity. Then, they wrote the secret messages (using blue markers) and covered them with red scribbles. Finally, they tested their magnifying glasses and shared their experiences with their classmates.
WHAT?
This project was a complete success. The children were able to build and experiment with their magic magnifying glasses.
SO WHAT?
The results indicate that the students understood and applied the concept of anaglyph images in a fun way. It is concluded that interactive methods improve learning and motivation in science.
WHAT'S NEXT?
Magnifying glasses could be made with other filter colors in order to test the theory.
REFERENCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The ideas are suggested by the teachers in the Makers class. They come from various sources extracted from the internet like Pinterest or YouTube.
JUDGES FEEDBACK
This is a nice project to begin to examine several different scientific processes as well as offers opportunities for interdisciplinary connections. I would love to see how 1st graders explain what is going on here and to see how they would get creative and modify the basic structure.