Waves · SHS2 Physics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 2.2.2.LI.1 - Explain the production, nature and transmission of sound.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Explain how sound is produced by vibrating sources, using local musical instruments as examples.
Describe sound as a longitudinal mechanical wave that requires a material medium for transmission.
Trace the transmission of sound from a source through a medium to a receiver, explaining the role of particle vibrations and compression and rarefaction.
Demonstrate that sound cannot travel in a vacuum, using evidence from simple demonstrations or simulations.
Relate the properties of sound (loudness and pitch) to the amplitude and frequency of the vibration producing it.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Energy (Strand 2)
Sub-strand: Waves (2.2)
Content standard: 2.2.2.CS.2 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of sound waves. 2.2.2.LO.2 Using the property of reflection of sound and the phenomenon of resonance to give an account of how the speed of sound can be determined.
Indicator: 2.2.2.LI.1 - Explain the production, nature and transmission of sound.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 17 (Week 17 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 114

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Collaborative learning: Learners using some local musical instruments such as drums, percussions, flutes, horns and stringed instruments describe how sound is produced. Learners then discuss the longitudinal nature of sound.
Instruments should be cut across the various ethnic groups. Opportunity for all to participate - be mindful of gender-biased groupings and should encourage peer teaching where applicable. Learners with some form of physical challenges should be assisted in the performance of the experiments.
Foster collaborations that broaden students' exposure to diverse physics-related career paths and role models.
Assessment (2.2.2.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding; Level 3 Strategic reasoning.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Audio-visuals
- Internet
- Projectors
- YouTube
- Interactive laboratory virtual
- Slinky
- Sonometer
- Guitar, piano
- Frequency/signal generator
- Resonance tube set up