Sound


Teacher Resources

Essentials of Sound for Teachers

Sometimes the hardest part about teaching a science unit is becoming comfortable with the topic enough to answer questions and discuss the science with confidence. Take a look at these sites for some background knowledge for yourself.

This overview of sound waves will be helpful background knowledge as you plan your unit. Check out the right-hand menu for more in-depth information.

Learn more about the general concepts of sound science.

Information about the Doppler Effect and Shock Waves at Physicsclassroom.com.

How does Sonar work?

Resources for Teachers

Check out this list of decibel levels of common sounds.

Here's another decibel chart that you can print and share.

Sound interactives that you can use on your SmartBoard.

Comparing light and sound waves at BBC Bitesize.

Video shorts on the science of sound.

Lesson Plans and More

Light waves — sound and light lessons.

You'll want to check out these engaging experiments from the Exploratorium for your sound unit.

Check out these great lessons, activities, and experiments for your class.

Hands-on lesson plans on sound waves and frequencies from the Utah Education Network.

Can sound extinguish a fire? Take a look at this complete STEM lesson on Hearing and Sound that includes a hands-on design project. Aligned with 4th grade standards, but easily adaptable to other grades.

Activities and Projects

Sound activities and investigations from ZOOM - PBS Kids.

Make musical instruments to enhance your study of sound.

Math, Science, and Sound activities that use technology to explore sound waves and frequency. Interactives include Thunderstorm Stopwatch and What Frequencies Can Animals Hear?

Explore sound vibrations with these hands-on experiments from the American Chemical Society.