The Periscope is an exciting hands-on experiment that allows participants to build their own periscope—a device that uses multiple mirrors to see around corners and over obstacles. In this activity, participants will explore the principles of reflection and optics while constructing and using their periscopes.
Materials Needed:
- Two small mirrors (square or rectangular shape)
- Cardboard or foam board
- Tape or glue
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Optional: Decorative materials (markers, stickers, etc.)
Instructions:
- Introduction: Begin by introducing the concept of periscopes and their applications, such as in submarines or for spying around corners.
- Mirror Placement: Place the two small mirrors on a flat surface, positioning them at a 45-degree angle to each other.
- Cardboard or Foam Board: Cut two rectangular pieces of cardboard or foam board. One piece should be larger and will serve as the main body of the periscope, while the other piece will be the top cover.
- Mirror Mounting: Attach one mirror to the inside of the larger cardboard piece at a 45-degree angle, using tape or glue. Ensure the mirror is stable and securely fixed.
- Top Cover: On the smaller cardboard piece, cut out a rectangular hole that matches the size of the mirror. This will serve as the top cover of the periscope.
- Assembling the Periscope: Attach the smaller cardboard piece (with the hole) to the top of the larger cardboard piece, aligning the hole with the mirror inside the periscope. Secure it with tape or glue to complete the periscope assembly.
- Decorating (Optional): Encourage participants to decorate their periscopes using markers, stickers, or other decorative materials.
- Periscope Use: Hold the periscope against one eye and look through the open end. By adjusting the angle and orientation of the periscope, participants can see objects or people that are not directly visible.
- Observation and Discussion: Observe how the periscope uses multiple reflections to allow seeing around corners or over obstacles. Discuss the principles of reflection and the importance of the 45-degree angles in the mirrors.
Safety Precautions:
- Be cautious when using scissors and handling sharp materials such as mirrors. Adult supervision is recommended.
- Ensure that participants do not apply excessive force that could cause the mirrors to crack or break.
The Periscope provides an opportunity for participants to explore the principles of reflection and optics while having fun building and using their periscopes. It promotes creativity, problem-solving, and an understanding of how mirrors can be used to view objects that are not in the direct line of sight. Additionally, the activity encourages participants to explore real-world applications of periscopes in various fields, such as in submarines, military, and surveillance.
| STEM Concept | Explanation and Application |
| Science Concepts | |
| Reflection | Understanding how light reflects off surfaces, in this case, how mirrors inside the periscope create reflections. |
| Optics | Exploring the principles of optics and how light behaves when passing through and reflecting off mirrors. |
| Vision and Sight | Understanding the concept of vision and how periscopes extend one’s line of sight around corners and obstacles. |
| Technology Concepts | |
| Periscope Design | Using technology (for example, computer-aided design) to explore and create different periscope designs and arrangements. |
| Mirror Materials | Exploring different mirror materials, such as glass or acrylic, and their reflective properties for periscope use. |
| Portable Devices | Discussing how periscopes can be integrated into portable devices, such as smartphones or cameras, for specialized uses. |
| Engineering Concepts | |
| Periscope Assembly | Applying engineering principles to design and assemble the periscope using mirrors, cardboard, and adhesives. |
| Angled Mirror Mounting | Understanding the importance of the 45-degree angles in the mirrors for multiple reflections and image formation. |
| Structural Stability | Ensuring the periscope is stable and securely fixed to function effectively and withstand use. |
| Mathematics Concepts | |
| Angles and Geometry | Understanding the mathematical concept of angles and their role in the arrangement of mirrors in the periscope. |
| Symmetry | Applying mathematical concepts of symmetry in positioning the mirrors and maintaining consistency in reflections. |
| Trigonometry | Exploring trigonometric relationships in the periscope’s design and the angles of reflections for optimal performance. |
| Spatial Geometry | Understanding the spatial relationships between mirrors, the observer’s eye, and the viewed objects in the periscope. |
Periscope. Each concept can be further explored and expanded based on the age, understanding, and interests of the participants. The activity provides an interdisciplinary learning experience, integrating scientific, technological, engineering, and mathematical concepts while fostering creativity and problem-solving skills through the construction and use of a periscope. Additionally, it encourages participants to explore the science of light, reflection, and optics while having hands-on fun with a practical device.