The Badge Archive

Activity Description: Trace shadows of objects or people and decorate them to explore shape and light.

• Fulfills Step 1 of GSUSA Daisy Space Science Explorer badge requirements.

Info Needed for Daisy Space Science: The sun looks like it moves across the sky because Earth is spinning. When we see the sun in the morning, our part of Earth is turning toward the light. At night, our part of Earth turns away from the sun. It looks like the sun has gone down. Shadows change during the day because the sun’s position in the sky changes.

---

Items Needed:

• A roll of butcher paper (pre-cut pieces taller than each scout)
• OR smaller pieces of paper and small toys like dolls or trucks
• Pencils
• Tape
• Lamp with removable shade
• Stickers
• (Optional) Flashlight
• (Optional) Mirror
• (Optional) Rocks to hold paper in place

Instructions (Estimated Total Time: 30–40 min):

1. Model day and night with light (5–7 min)
   • Scouts place a sticker on their nose.
   • Use a lamp or flashlight as the Sun.
   • Scouts slowly turn their heads left and right to see how light changes.
2. Prepare for shadow tracing (5–7 min)
   • Pass out paper, pencils, and tape.
   • Go outside or sit by a sunny window.
   • Tape paper to the ground or windowsill.
3. Trace shadows (10–12 min)
   • Scouts pair up or work in small groups.
   • One scout stands while the other traces their shadow.
   • OR place a toy on the paper and trace its shadow.
   • Mark the time and trace shoes or place rocks to remember the position.
4. Observe changes later (5–7 min)
   • Leave the paper in place and return later in the meeting.
   • Scouts stand in the same spot and trace the new shadow.
   • Compare the two shapes and positions.
5. Reflect and share (5–7 min)
   • Scouts talk about what changed and why.
   • Discuss how sunlight and Earth’s movement affect shadows.
   • Share predictions and discoveries with the group.