Lesson Title: Waves Introduction

Standard(s):
MS-PS4-1.

Date to teach: March 9

Goal(s)/Objective(s):
Use mathematical representations to
describe a simple model for waves that
includes how the amplitude of a wave is
related to the energy in a wave. [

Mathematics Proficiency:
MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively
MP.4 Model with Mathematics

Teacher Materials:

Explain the two types of waves, and that they

require a medium to travel through
Articulate and identify the basic features that
are part of the waves
Explain that waves have a certain wavelength,
frequency, amplitude, and speed of the wave,
and can calculate for the speed of the wave

Waves worksheet (wont get to it today),

Student Materials:

http://phet.colorado.edu/sims/html/wave-on-astring/latest/wave-on-a-string_en.html, slinky

Notes

Instruction Plan:
-

Start with the pre-assessment and see how much the class already knows about waves
Have the class turn and partner share with each other what they already know about waves,
and come back together and share what the groups already know about waves. It could be
different types of waves and most likely ocean waves
Begin taking notes on waves
o Focus on the definition of a wave
Use the simulation to help explain what a wave is as well as that waves are
transferring energy not the matter
o Focus on the role of a medium and its importance for waves (relate back to the
examples they provided as well as a medium in art class)
o Explain the two types of mechanical waves (transverse & mechanical)
Use the phet to explain transverse
Use the slinky to explain a compressional wave
Start notes on the features of the wave
o Begin drawing a transverse wave and focus on crest, trough, and resting position
o Draw a compressional wave and label the rarefactions and compressions
Explain the wavelength of a wave using the Phet visual
Use the simulation to help explain the frequency and to calculate the speed of a wave
Explain the amplitude and how to find how much energy is in a wave.

Assignment:

Formative Assessment:

Wave worksheet

Questions throughout the lesson, as well as the

worksheet to know if they understand the parts
of a wave

Notes:
-

This class needs to have visuals to help them better understand the concept
Relating the concepts to something they would experience in their lives and use the examples
they provided on the first day

Universal Design for Learning Networks/Domains (see UDL Guidelines)

RECOGNITION

STRATEGIC

AFFECTIVE

Multiple Means of Representation

Multiple Means of Expression

(Action)

Multiple Means of Engagement

Options for Perception

Options for action/interaction

Options for recruiting interest

Taking notes, Phet illustration,

Visual with the slinky

Certain students can be able to

hold onto the slinky and create a
compressional wave. Some
students will have a say in changing
the frequency and amplitude of
wave on pHet.

Students will have a variety of

options to have a say in the visual at
hand, the activities/demonstrations
we will do.

Options for Language/Symbols

Options for Expression

Options for Sustaining Effort &

Persistence

Options for Comprehension

Options for Executive Function

Options for Self Regulation