Year 3 – 4 | Check the UV

Protecting My Skin full resource download  |  Concept 2: Heat and UV from the sun: What’s the difference? download

Background

This lesson is designed to consolidate students’ understanding about the difference between ultraviolet (UV) radiation and
heat. It provides students with the knowledge and information to make informed decisions and healthy lifestyle choices
around sun protection. Students record the UV Index and temperature for different locations and different times throughout
Australia. This activity also provides an opportunity to highlight the difference between temperature (infrared) and
ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Students use the free SunSmart Global UV app to check UV at different locations.
NOTE: the app uses real-time UV readings at locations within a 100km radius of an ARPANSA monitoring station, which are located
in high population areas. In Western Australia, that location is in Perth. Locations outside of the Perth area will be shown as clear
sky UV forecasts.

Key messages

• We often check the weather forecast, but it is also important to check the daily UV Index to protect our skin from UV
  radiation.
• When the UV Index is 3 or above, sun protection is required.
• UV radiation is invisible, you cannot see or feel it.
• UV and heat are not the same thing. It is not only when it is hot that we need to use sun protection.
• The UV Index can be 3 or above when it is cool and cloudy too.
• UV radiation can bounce and reflect off surfaces, so it is important to use a combination of sun protection strategies.
• When UV levels are at their peak, minimise time outdoors during these times.

Resources

• Activity sheet: SunSmart Global UV app Record Sheets
• www.myuv.com.au
• SunSmart Global UV app
• Interactive whiteboard or electronic device
• How to read the daily UV forecast

Instructions

1. Display the SunSmart Global UV app or alternatively students access the app on their own device.
2. Explore and discuss how the SunSmart Global UV app works, its functions and key questions.
3. Distribute SunSmart Global UV app activity sheet.
4. Record UV app readings at targeted points during the day and week. Record UV for your local area and also two other
   locations throughout Australia.
5. Using this data, plot results on a graph and answer questions to evaluate the data.
   Students chart findings, display findings in a graph and complete questions on activity sheet.
6. Class discussion, summarise findings and answer key questions.

Key questions

• What is UV radiation?
• What are some ways we can protect our skin?
• Why is it important to protect our skin?
• What does the UV Index tell us?
• How can we incorporate and use the SunSmart Global UV app into our daily routines?
• What do you think affects the UV forecast in different locations, such as Albany and Broome?

Extension

• Include the SunSmart widget on your school website.
• Repeat the activity again at a different time of the year such as winter and summer. Compare the results.