Year 5 – 6 | SunSmart Global UV app
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 enables students to develop the knowledge and information to make informed decisions and healthy lifestyle
choices around skin protection. It also distinguishes the difference between temperature and the UV Index through
comparing the UV Index and weather forecast in different locations throughout Australia. Students use the free SunSmart Global UV app
to gather information. It tells you when sun protection is recommended for your location (and other areas)
using forecast information from the Bureau of Meteorology website and live UV data from ARPANSA.
NOTE: the SunSmart Global UV 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
- Be informed and check the UV Index daily so sun protection measures can be made 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
- The UV Index can be 3 or above when it is cool and cloudy
- UV radiation can bounce and reflect off surfaces, so it is important to use all five forms of sun
protection. Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide - When UV levels are at their peak, minimise time outdoors when possible.
Resources
- www.myuv.com.au
- SunSmart Global UV app
- School device or interactive board
- How to read the daily UV forecast
- Activity sheet: SunSmart Global UV app
Instructions
- Display the SunSmart Global UV app or alternatively students can access the app on their own device.
- Explore and discuss how the Global SunSmart UV app works, its functions and key questions.
- Distribute activity sheet.
- Record the UV app readings at targeted points during the day and week for your local area and two other locations
throughout Australia. - 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.
- Class discussion, summarise activity, findings and 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 free SunSmart Global UV app into our daily routines?
- What do you think effects the UV forecast in different locations, such as Albany and Broome?
Extension
- Put the SunSmart widget on your school website. Visit myUV.com.au to find out how.
- Repeat the activity again at a different time of the year such as winter and summer. Compare results.