How a Kaleidoscope Works

This week the Year 4 students have been finding out about what happens when you put 2 mirrors close to each other. They found out that the mirrors reflect each other and make reflections of the reflections.

A Kaleidoscope works because of this.

The students made simple Kaleidoscopes by taping together 2 mirrors and a piece of black card into a triangle. They covered each end with clear cellophane.

On one end they put some coloured beads then covered this end with greaseproof paper.
Now they are ready to use and view the amazing patterns.

How a Kaleidoscope Works (By Zoe A6)
One mirror makes a reflection from the beads and the other mirror gets the reflection. The reflections go back and forward. When you turn the kaleidoscope the symmetrical pattern changes because of the moving beads.

Look at the beautiful pattern our Kaleidoscope made.