Big Wave

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This is an activity about waves. Using marbles, paper clips and rubber bands, learners explore how waves behave. This is an excellent activity to use to lead into discussion of waves of all sorts (sound, ocean, light).

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 4 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Simulation
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • 6 rubber bands
  • 10 marbles of the same size (larger ones work better)
  • 5 jumbo paper clips
  • Clear tape

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
      • Probes, Satellites and Spacecraft
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Aerospace Engineering
    • Technology
      • Transportation
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Potential and Kinetic Energy
      • Energy and Power
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Wave Properties
      • Wave Motion
      • Sound
      • Diffraction and Interference

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, COSI, 2009