Sound Automata


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In this activity, learners build their own sound machines and explore the interplay of motion and sound. This engineering activity introduces learners to automata, rotational motion, cranks and cams, simple machines, and sound waves. [Activity is publicly available through a web crawler capture on Archive.org.]

Quick Guide


Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes

Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes

Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per student

Age Range:
Ages 6 - 14

Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan

Language:
English

Materials List (per student)


  • 2 clear plastic cups, large
  • 2 bamboo skewers
  • 2 straws
  • 1 sheet of cardboard or foam core
  • 1 bottle cap
  • 1 wire hanger
  • 2-3 metal washers
  • 1 can with a metal bottom
  • wire or string, thin
  • screwdriver
  • scissors
  • hot glue gun
  • utility knife
  • pliers

Subjects


  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Mechanical Engineering
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Work and Machines
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
      • Rotation Motion
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Wave Properties
      • Wave Motion
      • Sound
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Informal Categories


  • Arts and Crafts
  • Music
  • Toys

Audience


To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • 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:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Oakland Discovery Centers

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Oakland Discovery Centers, 2012

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