We recommend making enough Dark Boxes prior to class so that students can work in pairs. If you only have enough materials to make one or two Dark Boxes, you can use this experiment as an activity station.

As an alternative to making Dark Boxes with cardstock, you can also simply use a shoebox (or similar box with a lid). All you have to do is use a sharp knife to cut a 1-inch square on one end of the box that can serve as an eyehole.

Make Your Dark Boxes

If making Dark Boxes from cardstock, watch this video and follow the instructions on the printed Dark Box templates.

Have Students Play “Dark Box”

1. Have pairs of students cut, fold, and color the Dark Box Messages.
2. Distribute the “How To Play Dark Box” printout to each pair of students.
3. Students will take turns placing a message inside the box and try to read the message.
4. Ask students how much light they need to see the message clearly and if there is anything they can do to let more light into the box. Students will start to notice that they can only read the message once they start to lift the lid of the box to let more light through. (NOTE: If students have difficulty lifting the box lid slightly, you can cut a small hole on the top of the lid and have students cover the hole to make it dark, and uncover the hole to let light in.)