Kaleidoscopes

This toy is a kaleidoscope. It uses mirrors to reflect light off the bits of brightly colored material. The reflection makes different patterns!

What is this?

• It is some kind of toy.

• It has mirrors in it.

• It is a toy. It is called a Kaleidoscope.

Sir David Brewster is the man who invented the kaleidoscope. He made the first one around 1816. He was interested in light and reflection.

When was the first kaleidoscope made?

• It was made about 205 years ago!

• It was made in 1816.

• It reflects light.

Kaleidoscopes make many patterns. The mirrors are placed at an angle, so that the light from the mirrors will reflect on the colored pieces inside.

What reflects the light?

• The sun reflects on it.

• The mirrors reflect the light.

• The patterns reflect the light.

Many patterns are created when the light bounces off of the mirror. This is called reflection.

Do you have a mirror at home?

• Yes, I have a mirror.

• No, I do not have a mirror.

These are the original kaleidoscopes that were made in 1816. They are very old.

What does original mean?

• Original means they were the first.

• Original is a game.

• Original is where it came from.

These were handmade by an artist using stained glass, mirrors, and a large wheel that has many colors.

Who made these?

• These were made by my mom.

• These were made by an artist.

• These are from a local toy shop.

This is an art poster that is made to look like a kaleidoscope.

What is this?

• This is colored paper.

• This is a fancy wallpaper.

• This is an art poster.

Kaleidoscopes have inspired people to make many things.

What do you think inspired might mean?

• I think inspired means to help a person feel like making something.

• I think inspired means giving a person an idea.

• I think inspired could mean BOTH of these!

Kaleidoscope patterns are everywhere, even on clothing.

Would you like to wear something with a pattern like this?

• Yes, I would like to wear that!

• No, thank you.

This sofa was made to look like diamond patterns in a kaleidoscope. The diamonds are different colors.

What kind of pattern is this?

• This is a kaleido-couch.

• This pattern is called diamond.

• This pattern is made of different colors.