Lesson Plan

Earthquake Waves: Wave Notes

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

A multi-part lesson opens with a review of p waves and s waves. Then scholars use a simple s wave simulator to view the way the wave travels. Next, pupils use cups and various fluids to simulate p waves moving through different mediums. Finally, simple worksheets provide a place for note taking and application of the knowledge. 

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CCSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Place the cups in a large aluminum pan that can help contain any messes
Classroom Considerations
  • Lessons in the series build off on one another and should be completed in order
  • Activity has the potential to get extremely messy, so carefully assign groups and designate which students will be completing which jobs
  • Ninth lesson in a series of 20 related to earthquakes and volcanoes
Pros
  • Lesson follows a 5E format with three sets to explore and explain
  • Uses materials that are easy and cheap to obtain, build, and store
  • Includes the answers for one worksheet included in the set
Cons
  • None
Common Core