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The Arizona STEM Acceleration Project

An Exploration of Wave Dynamics with a Slinky

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An Exploration of Wave Dynamics with a Slinky

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A 6-8th grade STEM lesson

Bryce Wolcott

12/10/2023

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Notes for teachers

In this lab, we will be completing

a set of tasks that will help us

develop a better understanding

of the formation and parts of

both transverse and longitudinal

waves.

List of Materials

  • Slinky

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Standards

8.P4U1.4 - Develop and use mathematical models to explain wave characteristics and interactions.

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Science & Engineering Practices

  • Asking Questions and Defining Problems
  • Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
  • Developing and Using Models
  • Engage in Argument from Evidence

Crosscutting Concepts

  • Patterns
  • Cause and effect
  • Energy & Matter

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Objectives:

  • Create and name the different components of longitudinal and transverse waves using a slinky to showcase how energy moves through different materials.

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  • Demonstrate how waves interact with each other in constructive and destructive interference.

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Agenda

This is an online lesson that students can complete asynchronously, at their own pace.

Introductory reading/activity�(30 min)

Slinky Lab�(60 min)

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Intro/Driving Question/Opening

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Read and complete the guided practice questions of this introduction to mechanical waves.

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Hands-on Activity Instructions

  • Instruct students to make a copy of this document, which contains the instructions to the activity.
  • Grey slides are instructions for students to follow.
  • Green slides require student responses.
  • Blue sides are for titles and supplementary information.

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Assessment

  • Student responses to the guided practice questions in the opening activity can be used by the instructor to guide additional questions before and after the hands-on portion of the activity.

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  • At the conclusion of the hands-on activity, students will submit their completed document for grading.

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Differentiation

Students needing additional assistance can meet in a small group, with the instructor (in-person or virtually) to complete the activity together.

Remediation

Extension/Enrichment

Students needing additional extension/enrichment on the topics addressed in this activity can explore the lessons in Sections 2.5-2.10 of this virtual textbook.