Summary
In this project, students investigate sound waves in order to gain a better understanding of the fundamental differences between pitch and volume. The project is separated into three separate components. First, students must decide what type of instrument they should make. They are told that their instrument must be homemade and a good representation of the instrument it is meant to resemble. The instrument must be capable of producing at least three different pitches and volumes. Second, students play their instrument and record the sound produced using Audacity. Three different pitches and three different volumes must be recorded. As they record these sounds the students are to take screen shots of these sound wave images produced in Audacity. Finally, students are asked to analyze the sound wave snapshots to look for fundamental differences between pitch and volume. In addition, there are questions included within the project directions that the students must answer. All screen shots and answers to questions are then to be compiled into a presentation. Students are given the freedom to use any presentation medium they would like. After presenting the projects to the class, the students are asked to complete a project follow up in which they discuss what they have learned from this project and to determine if they have a true understanding of the differences between pitch and volume (there is a common misconception about the differences between the two). In this follow up they also reflect on which of their classmates did the best job in interpreting sound waves and tying all of the project components together.
TIPC Ratings
Teacher and students discussed appropriate search techniques in a whole group discussion by going through a flipchart with examples of how to search appropriately. Students used knowledge of search techniques to do their own internet searches on musical instruments. In groups, students used a GoogleDoc to construct the essential questions needed to consider when they make their instrument.
Students worked in groups to discuss and provide feedback to each other regarding musical instruments they had selected to create. In groups, students used a GoogleDoc to construct the essential questions needed to consider when they make their instrument.Following presentations students offered feedback about which of their peers demonstrated mastery of this topic.
Students used critical thinking to determine which instruments best met the requirements of the assignment. Students were asked to analyze sound wave data and discuss how it related to terminology discussed in class. Students had to be able to think critically about questions posed by the teacher during their presentation as an assessment piece of this project.
Students created their own musical instruments after synthesizing existing / self-generated knowledge about instruments and sound. Students created their own unique presentation which incorporates the components of this project.
Student Artifact
Download Files
Musical-Instrument-Project-5315.zip
Contents:
- Lesson Plan
- 2 Student Artifacts
- Other Lesson Files
