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Ateneo Science Educators and Researchers in Virtual
Engagement (SERVE) 2020 Ateneo de Manila University
School of Science and Engineering
MS Science Education Program of Biology Department

Teaching Lens’ Properties Using Discarded Plastic
Bottles: A Home-Based Activity

a
Noreen Mabbagu and Ivan B. Culaba b

a b
Sta. Elena High School Marikina City Department of Physics Ateneo de Manila University
*Corresponding Author: noreen.mabbagu@deped.gov.ph

ABSTRACT

The Department of Education has declared that due to the COVID-19 pandemic classes in the basic education
will not be the usual face-to-face method. Alternative methods of teaching, like online classes, are being
explored. Without access to the laboratories, it will be a huge challenge for the science teachers to be able to
teach science within the guidelines of the K-12 Science curriculum – learner-centered, inquiry-based and
collaborative. This study presents some ideas on how science, specifically optics, can be conducted at home
with the elements of active learning. The simple and readily available materials at home like, plastic alcohol
containers, flashlight, and a rectangular clear plastic container are used to demonstrate
a. the bending of light as it passes through different media;
b.the effect of the curvature of the lens on the degree of bending of the light when it passes through
the lens;
c. the effect of the index of refraction of the lens on the degree of bending of light when it passes
through the lens;
d.the concepts of focal point and focal length; and
e. correct the misconception that a convex lens always cause parallel rays of light to converge to a
point.
The conduct of home-based activity in optics through localization of materials had showed positive results in
demonstrating the refraction of light rays; and concepts of focal point and focal length. This study also demon-
strated the relationship that exists between the lens’ refractive index and its curvature to the degree of re-
fracting parallel light rays. Furthermore, the study addressed the misconception that all parallel rays of light
converge to a point after passing a convex lens.

We hope that this simple experiment may be useful to teachers teaching optics in Physics and Physical Science
subjects.

Keywords: Preconceptions, In-service teachers, Curriculum, Training, FMCE, Forces and motion

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