---
title: "Sunlight warms things up"
description: "Make observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth's surface, noticing that sunlight warms the ground, water, and objects"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/sunlight-warms-things-up-mt_iGSfQg3g5c
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/sunlight-warms-things-up-mt_iGSfQg3g5c.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# Sunlight warms things up

Make observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth's surface, noticing that sunlight warms the ground, water, and objects

Subject: Science · Area: Energy · Ages 5 to 6
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/sunlight-warms-things-up-mt_iGSfQg3g5c

## Ready when they can

- Observe that surfaces in sunlight feel warmer than those in shade
- Describe that sunlight provides warmth (heat energy) to Earth's surface
- Compare temperatures of surfaces in sun vs shade using touch or a thermometer

## Lesson: Sunlight warms things up

Sunlight is more than just light. It also carries warmth. When sunlight hits the ground, it heats it up.

*(drawing: The sunny spot feels much warmer than the shady spot.)*

**Example.** Mia touches the sunny sidewalk. It feels hot on her hand. Then she touches the shady sidewalk. It feels cool and gentle. The sun warmed only the sunny part.

**Tip.** Touch a sunny spot and a shady spot. Feel which one is warmer. That warmth comes from the sun.

**Recap.** Sunlight warms the ground, water, and things it shines on.

## Practice

8 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [Seasonal changes](https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/seasonal-changes-mt_go5i87u2b9)

## Opens up

- [Sun-Driven Weather Systems](https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/sun-driven-weather-systems-mt_-YYnLLIZh5)
- [Building shade from the sun](https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/building-shade-from-the-sun-mt_2agkUcdah9)