WV State Standards: Math: M.O.A1.2.1, M.O.A1.2.3 Science: SC.9.1.3,  SC. 9.1.4,  SC.9.2.1, SC.9.2.3, SC.9.2.7, SC.9.2.8, SC.9.3.1, SC.9.3.2, SC.9.3.3, SC.9.3.4, SC.9.4.32, SC.9.4.36, SC.9.4.37, SC.9.5.3, SC.9.5.4 National Standards:  Math: 1, 2, 3, 8, 9 Science: 2, 8, 9, 10 Technology: 1, 2, 3 Blooms Taxonomy: Knowledge, Synthesis, Comprehension, Application, Analysis, Synthesis 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Systems Thinking, Problem Identification, Formulation, and Solution, Thinking and Problem-Solving, Information and Media Literacy, Self-Direction, Accountability and Adaptability

Objective(s)

• Students will identify the similarities and differences between longitudinal waves and transverse waves and their characteristics.
• Students will identify the four types of seismic waves and their characteristics.

Time Required

Two 45 minute class periods

Pre-Requisite Skills

Basic knowledge of solving math equations

Internet, calculator

Velocity Worksheet,  Acceleration Worksheet, slinkys

1. Give each group of students a slinky.  Allow students to experiment with making various types of waves. Have them make a diagram of each type of wave they can produce.
2. Conduct a class discussion about wave types and characteristics. Use Learning about waves as a reference.
3. Students will complete wave Velocity Worksheet and Acceleration Worksheet.
4. Have students research seismic waves on the Internet.  They should create a summary of the four types and attempt to model them with their slinkys. Have students discuss their findings with the class.

The use of  research, working with equations, a hands-on activity, and some notes encompass a wide variety of learners. There will also be teacher assisstance for those in need.

This lesson can easily be used by science teachers that are discussing waves, velocity, and acceleration, and also includes two good worksheets for math teachers who are working on solving one-variable multi-step equations for a specific unknown.

This lesson would also be an easy one to implement if computers (Internet) were not available by giving students the notes on waves.

Each worksheet is graded and an oral grade given on the 'slinky' modeling. The main assessment will be at the end of the unit.