SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW |
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| Subject
Area |
Sound and light waves |
| Age
or Grade |
Ninth grade Physics (Ages 14-15 years old) |
| Estimated
Length |
Four class periods of preparation and one class period to present. |
| Prerequisite
knowledge/skills |
Basic algebra skills are needed to manipulate formulas. Physics understanding of velocity. |
| Description
of New Content |
Before the presentation students had to learn about properties of both sound and light waves; and what were the underlining characteristics of the light we see and sound we hear. This includes learning the four wave properties, wavelength, frequency, amplitude, and wave speed. |
| Goals |
Students will put on a short (5-10 minute) sound and light show (think of any musical concert) and must be able to explain the physics behind the light they used and the sound the produced. |
| Materials
Needed |
Students can use and bring in any materials they may
desire.
This year students used: CD players, overhead projectors, colored lights, lasers, turntables, microphones, puppets, dry ice, and much more. |
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Procedure
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Opener - Students are told they will put on their very own sound and light show. The show can be anything that consists of both sound and light. Some past year examples are given for a rough guideline, but students are encouraged to be creative. Some examples include puppet shows, rap concerts, live musical performances. Development - Students form groups of 4-5 and divide work amongst themselves. Musically talented students may be separated into different groups. Class time was given for students to work on the project and allowed us to monitor their progress and make sure they are on track. During the development process the question, "What is the physics behind this." is important for students to ask themselves Closure - Students are given the opportunity to point out the physics behind not only their performance, but also of other groups. This went towards extra credit.
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| Evaluation |
Students hand in a written report describing the physics concepts used. Both the report and the presentation are factors of the final grade. |
| Extensions |
The question stated before, "What is the physics behind this." lets students see that things they enjoy everyday are explained with physics. This has allowed for future connection between the classroom material and their everyday experiences. |
| References |