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In this design challenge activity, learners build a four-stringed instrument that can play a tune. This lesson plan includes information on sound energy and pitch and the design process, as well as how to integrate two video clips into the activity. This activity can be followed up with the "Headphone Helper" activity from the same resource. Available as either English or Spanish PDF.
- Under 5 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $1 - $5 per student
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English, Spanish
Quick Guide
Materials List (per student)
- duct tape
- scissors
- 2 pencils
- 4 craft sticks
- 4 rubber bands (2 medium, 2 thin)
- shoebox (both lids and boxes can be used to make an instrument)
Subjects
-
Engineering and Technology
- Engineering
-
Life Sciences
-
Human Senses and Perception
- Hearing
-
Human Senses and Perception
-
Physical Sciences
-
Vibration and Waves
- Wave Properties
- Wave Motion
- Sound
-
Vibration and Waves
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
-
The Scientific Process
-
The Nature of Technology
-
The Design Process
- Research and Development
- Invention and Innovation
- Problem Solving
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance
-
The Design Process
Informal Categories
- Music
- Performing Arts
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- hear
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Links STEM to other topics of interest such as arts and humanities
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Components that are part of this resource:
- Learner handout (English PDF)
- Learner handout (Spanish PDF)
- Sound Energy Video Clip
- Pitch Video Clip
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Source Collection
- Design Squad Nation
Rights:
- All rights reserved, WGBH Educational Foundation, 2009
Funding Source:
- National Science Foundation, 0810996