Physcis: Waves Storyline

Students begin the study of waves by developing a model for oscillatory motion;  this will be used as a bridge between the previously developed models from mechanics, and future models dealing with mechanical waves.

Unit 1:  Oscillating Particle (OP) Model

Students learn to:

1. Explore the nature of Simple Harmonic Motion through the development of an oscillating particle (OP) model.
2. Explore the kinematic, dynamic and energy properties of an oscillating system.
3. Explore the relationship between the period and frequency of oscillation.
4. Introduce the concept of transverse displacement of an oscillating system. Show that the models for oscillating particles apply equally well to both transverse and longitudinal oscillations

Unit 2 – Mechanical Waves in One Dimension

In this unit the Oscillating Particle model developed in Unit I will be used to begin the development of a mechanical wave model.  Students learn to:

1. Illustrate the concept of wave propagation using coupled oscillating particles
2. Demonstrate the behavior of wave pulses
3. Demonstrate the behavior of transverse pulses in springs interacting with a boundary.
4. Examine the interaction of multiple pulses traveling on a spring
5. Demonstrate the characteristics of periodic waves

Unit 3 – Longitudinal Waves and Sound

In this unit students describe aspects of sound using a model of longitudinal waves. They learn to:

1. Distinguish between transverse and longitudinal waves.
2. Measure the speed of sound.
3. Describe standing waves on strings and solid bars, in open and closed tubes.
4. Relate frequency to pitch, amplitude to loudness, and identify pressure nodes and antinodes
5. Describe harmonics and how they add and coexist in musical instruments.
6. Describe beats and how they arise.
7. Calculate beat frequency.

Unit 4 – Mechanical Waves in Two Dimensions

In this unit students extend the one-dimensional wave pulse to two dimensions using a ripple tank.  They learn to:

1. Develop representational tools (wave front & ray-wave diagrams) for waves in two dimensions.
2. Explore wave behaviors qualitatively in a ripple tank

• • reflection
  • refraction
  • diffraction
  • interference

3. Explore wave behaviors quantitatively using light

• • reflection
  • refraction
  • interference

4. Develop a quantitative description of interference

Sample Materials – Coming Soon

Workshops are offered each summer in a variety of locations.   Check back often as workshops are always being added. 

First-time attendees qualify for a free one-year membership to AMTA. Members have access to ALL instructional resources, webinars, distance learning courses, and other membership services!

If you would like to host a workshop contact:   engage@modelinginstruction.org