NCERT Class 2 Mathematics Joyful-Mathematics (English): Chapter 4 — Shadow Story (2D Shapes)
This chapter, 'Shadow Story (2D Shapes),' from NCERT's Joyful Mathematics for Class 2, introduces students to the fascinating world of shadows. It begins by describing Nakul and his friends' experience with Togalu Gombeyaata, a traditional shadow puppetry art form from Karnataka. The chapter encourages children to explore making their own shadow puppets using fingers and to observe shadows of various objects around them. It prompts discussions about when shadows are seen, when they vanish, and how the position of a light source affects shadow size. Students are encouraged to investigate at what times of the day their shadows are longest and shortest, fostering observation and critical thinking skills related to light and objects. This chapter aims to make learning mathematics engaging through interactive shadow play, aligning with CBSE's focus on experiential learning.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 2 |
| Subject | Mathematics |
| Book | Joyful-Mathematics (English) |
| Chapter | Chapter 4 — Shadow Story (2D Shapes) |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 239 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of shadows.
- Explore shadow puppetry and its formation.
- Observe how light sources affect shadow size.
- Identify the times of day when shadows are longest and shortest.
- Relate observations of shadows to mathematical concepts.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Shadow | A dark area or shape produced by an object coming between rays of light and a surface. |
| Shadow play | A form of entertainment using shadows cast by puppets or figures. |
| Puppetry | A form of theatre or entertainment which uses puppets. |
| Torch light | A portable electric light. |
| Vanish | To disappear suddenly and completely. |
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Practice questions
- What is Togalu Gombeyaata? Answer: Togalu Gombeyaata is a traditional shadow puppetry art form practiced in Karnataka.
- What happens when an object comes between a light source and a surface? Answer: A shadow is formed.
- How can you change the size of a shadow? Answer: By changing the position of the torch light or the object.
- When is your shadow usually the longest? Answer: Your shadow is usually longest in the early morning and late afternoon.
- When is your shadow usually the shortest? Answer: Your shadow is usually shortest around noon.
Frequently asked questions
What is Togalu Gombeyaata?
Togalu Gombeyaata is a traditional shadow puppetry art form from Karnataka, India, where puppets are used to tell stories.
How are shadows formed?
Shadows are formed when an opaque object blocks light from a light source, creating a dark area on a surface behind the object.
Can you make your own shadows?
Yes, you can make shadow puppets using your hands and fingers against a wall with a light source.
Does the position of the light affect the shadow?
Yes, changing the position of the light source can change the size and shape of the shadow.
When is a shadow the longest?
A shadow is typically longest in the early morning and late afternoon when the sun is low in the sky.
When is a shadow the shortest?
A shadow is typically shortest around midday when the sun is highest in the sky.
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NCERT Class 2 Mathematics — Joyful-Mathematics (English) — Chapter 4 — Shadow Story (2D Shapes). Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.