Illustrating the various ways that light is manipulated for use in applications ranging from mirrors to binoculars, Using Light is one of four titles in the Light, Sound and Waves series (the others are The Nature of Light, Sound and Waves; series price: $299), based on the National Science Education Standards and Benchmarks for Science Literacy. Combining concrete, real world examples with good computer graphics, the program defines and explores the concepts of reflection, translucence, color, and polarization. As with Cell Processes (also reviewed in this issue), the tape shares the same annoying generic rock soundtrack, but the level of interactivity is good, with "you decide" type questions sprinkled throughout and a final "video quiz." The teacher's guide includes the full script, student worksheets, and inexpensive and easy experiments to further illustrate the concepts. In addition to general science curriculum, this program would also be useful in art classes in helping students to understand the science underlying art. Recommended. Aud: I, J, H. (R. Reagan)
Using Light
(2001) 20 min. $89.95 (teacher’s guide included). Visual Learning Company. PPR. Color cover. Vol. 16, Issue 3
Using Light
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.