How waves travel
I can describe patterns of waves in terms of amplitude and wavelength.
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General
This lesson begins with a review of what students already know about waves. They will learn that waves can be categorized in a different way based on their direction of movement. Transverse and longitudinal waves are introduced and explained, using interactive features. Next, your students will watch a fun video of a slinky in slow-motion, showing them a longitudinal wave in action. After this, the “anatomy” of both types of waves is examined. Sound waves are discussed next, along with amplitude and frequency. Another activity will give them a chance to match the sound wave with its correct description. Finally, students will get a chance to test their knowledge in a labeling activity.
Standards
4-PS4-1
Learning Objective
Students will be able to describe patterns of waves in terms of amplitude and wavelength.
Introduction
Review what your students already know about waves. Teach them that waves can also be categorized based on their direction of movement. Introduce and explain transverse and longitudinal waves, using interactive features!
Instruction
Have students watch a video of a slinky in slow-motion, showing them a longitudinal wave in action. After this, explain the “anatomy” of both types of waves. Next, discuss and examine sound waves with your class, along with amplitude and frequency. Use the diagrams to help students visualize this. Explain and show students the crest, trough, resting point, fixed point, amplitude, and wavelength of a wave. Demonstrate how different sound waves have distinct shapes. Give students a chance to match the sound wave with its correct description in another activity.
Quiz
Students respond to ten multiple-choice and true/false questions.
Closing
Students get a chance to test their knowledge by labeling the longitudinal wave.
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About Gynzy
Gynzy is an online teaching platform for interactive whiteboards and displays in schools.
With a focus on elementary education, Gynzy’s Whiteboard, digital tools, and activities make it easy for teachers to save time building lessons, increase student engagement, and make classroom management more efficient.