W5 - Think Creative: Shadow Garden

What happens? 

Pupils can spontaneously interact with the projected images of falling coloured sand as their shadow is projected onto the screen.  They are encouraged to be expressive and creative in their movement and to play and be inventive.

How does it work?

A bright LCD projector is projected onto a white wall so a noticeable shadow is cast by any visitor who crosses in its path.  A digital camera captures images of the shadow and  a computer generates images which interact with this shadow

Why is it important? 

This promotes freedom of expression as visitors are able to contort their shadows in a unique way with no known outcomes.

How does it relate to the primary curriculum? 

•  KS2 - The world around us
• Children can develop their knowledge and understanding of:
• The way we live (light – appreciation the effects of colour and shadows related to movement)
• Movement (energy – sound as a carrier of energy)

How does it relate to the post-primary curriculum?

• KS3 - Knowledge, understanding and skills
• Visitors can …. 
• Creative thinking: be creative through relating their actions to images on the screen
• Science - Forces and energy: develop their knowledge and understanding of light
• Other subject – Art: study the interaction between movement and colour
• Other subject – PE: develop movement sequences in response to shadows on a screen
• KS3 - Objectives and key elements
• Spiritual awareness: develop a sense of wonder about colour and movement
• KS3 - Learning outcomes
• Independent or Team working (depending on the situation), Creativity and organisation

What thinking skills are involved?

Exploring the possibilities (visualising, looking from other perspectives, using fantasy, being aware of the emotions in feeling and thinking)

What learning styles are involved?

Main capability developed: Visual. 
Also: Synthetical / Practical, Physical / Kinaesthetic, Intrapersonal, Spiritual

Where can you find out more?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/scienceclips/ages/7_8/light_shadows.shtml