Vibrations and solid materials
I can explain how sounds can travel through a solid medium to our ears.
Vibrations and solid materials
I can explain how sounds can travel through a solid medium to our ears.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Sound travels from an object through a medium to our ears.
- Vibrations can be heard when travelling through some solids, such as taut string and cups.
- Scientists use results to make simple conclusions and raise further questions.
- Vibrations travel through a solid medium more quickly. We can hear these sounds louder and more clearly.
Keywords
Vibrations - Vibrations are when an object moves very fast from side to side.
Medium - Vibrations need a medium to travel, such as a solid, liquid or gas.
Solid - A solid is something that holds its shape and is not a liquid or a gas.
Taut - Taut means to be stretched firmly or tightly.
Conclusion - In a conclusion, scientists explain what the results show or mean.
Common misconception
Children often think that sounds will be quieter and more muffled when travelling through a solid medium.
It is important for children to try string telephones out for themselves to hear how sounds can be louder and clearer travelling through a solid medium.
To help you plan your year 4 science lesson on: Vibrations and solid materials, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 4 science lesson on: Vibrations and solid materials, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 2 science lessons from the Introduction to sound unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
String, scissors, cups with holes pre-cut.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
spoon
shampoo
steam
Exit quiz
6 Questions
