The Wave

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In this multi-step experiment (page 4 of pdf), learners study tide pools, and then drop a "wave" (a 4-pound bag of beans or birdseed) on a shell to mimic the force of crashing surf on tide pool animals. Next, learners create tide pool animals from card stock, masking tape, and string and predict how well their creature will withstand the 'wave.' After dropping the "wave" on the hand-made animals, learners record the results and discuss why some animals fared better than others. This is a great activity to use before or after a field trip to a tide pool or an aquarium with a tide pool exhibit.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 11
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Simulation
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • 4lb bag of birdseed, rice, or beans (this your “wave”)
  • duct tape and freezer bags to reinforce the “the wave” packaging
  • shells
  • string
  • index cards or card stock
  • scissors for students
  • masking tape
  • “The Wave” worksheet (page 6 of pdf)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Oceans and Water
    • Earth, Moon and Sun
      • Tides
  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Animals
    • Ecology
      • Ecosystems
    • Evolution
      • Mechanisms of Evolution
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations

Informal Categories

  • Animals
  • Model Building
  • Nature and Environment

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • be mobile
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • 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, Aquarium of the Bay,