Good Vibrations

The Mars Global Surveyor spent two years creating a mineral map of the planet Mars using thermal emission spectrometry. To help young astronomers understand this remote sensing instrument, have them simulate how data is collected and...

Learners study sound and how it can be created with air vibrations.  In this sound activity students experiment with different instruments to create different sounds and music.

Students assess and apply recurring patterns in natural systems. They evaluate the wave properties of frequency, wavelength, and speed as applied to sound. Students develop a relationship to quantify aspects of wave motion. They predict...

After reading an article on earthquakes and tsunamis, learners answer a series of multiple choice questions about what they have learned. All answers can be found within the article, making this a good way to prepare for reading...

Mix it up and engage learners in a lesson on music and physical science. Using cups, strings, guitars, and voice, the class will experiment with sound vibration and frequency. They'll use each instrument and fill out a worksheet that...

Here is an interesting demonstration which shows how heat can create sound in a metal pipe! The principle of heat rising is the key to making this particular demonstration a success. A piece of metal mesh is lodged inside each of the...

Here is an interesting demonstration which shows how heat can create sound in a metal pipe! The principle of heat rising is the key to making this particular demonstration a success. A piece of metal mesh is lodged inside each of the...

Learners determine density and hardness of wood samples based on several investigations. In this physical science and music lesson, students visit four centers and perform tests on wood samples to determine densities and hardnesses. They...

Make music. Class members construct a simple record player using a paper cone and a pin. The resource provides a description of what is happening and why listeners can hear the sounds through the cone. 

Transforming a deep breath into beautiful musical notes, brass instruments represent an interesting combination of scientific understanding and artistic creativity. Traveling from the mouth piece to the bell, this short video...