This was a big week for our new Science of Sound unit. Everyday we had a different presentation demonstrating the physics of sound. We starting off by learning how sound travels. Students rotated between tuning forks with rulers as well as cups attached to coat hangers. Through experimenting with these contraptions, we learned how sound can travel through solids.
An even more exciting demo was “Screaming Balloons”. Students predicted what would happen if I placed a hex nut inside a balloon and spun it around. A lot of students thought the balloon would pop. Thus, everyone was amazed at the screaming sound it actually made. We experimented with different balloon and nut sizes. In doing so, students learned how friction helps create vibrations. Likewise, the size of the object changes its sound. It’s worth mentioning, be wary of anyone asking for balloons and hex nuts at home. These balloons are noisy and can be a little annoying.
We concluded our week of sound with dancing oobleck. We placed oobleck on a pair of old speakers and played some music with a lot of bass. Students observed how the oobleck danced on top of the speaker. This demonstrated how sound travels. Student were then able to make the connection between sound, vibration and waves. Check out the video and slideshow created by O.S. and D.N. on their iPads.
Oobleck provided us with a great opportunity for integration with our math unit on measurement. Students learned to make oobleck using the ratio of 2 parts cornstarch to 1 part water. We then converted the recipe from cups to liters. I apologize in advance for any carpets or rugs that may be damaged in the future.
Memorial Day is Monday. I hope everyone has a great three-day weekend. I will be absent the following Friday. So no post next week.
- Mr. Bing
Week In Review
Most Important Idea
- Our persuasive essay debate because it was cool to hear other peoples opinion.
Most Important Activity
- Oobleck stereo because it taught us how sound moves.
Most Important Experience
- Book Fair because we all love books.
Three Questions:
1. Object A weighs 80 oz. and Object B weighs 5 lbs., which weighs less? Explain.
2. How is sound like a slinky?
3. Why can't Mr Bing hear anything over 18,000Hz?
Memorial Day is Monday. I hope everyone has a great three-day weekend. I will be absent the following Friday. So no post next week.
- Mr. Bing
Week In Review
Most Important Idea
- Our persuasive essay debate because it was cool to hear other peoples opinion.
Most Important Activity
- Oobleck stereo because it taught us how sound moves.
Most Important Experience
- Book Fair because we all love books.
Three Questions:
1. Object A weighs 80 oz. and Object B weighs 5 lbs., which weighs less? Explain.
2. How is sound like a slinky?
3. Why can't Mr Bing hear anything over 18,000Hz?