Wave Wonders: Animations & Mousetrap Mechanics

9th Grade

Project
3 weeks

Wave Wonders: Animations & Mousetrap Mechanics

Ingri Lopez

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage 9th-grade students in a dynamic exploration of mechanical and electromagnetic waves through creative animation and hands-on activities. By integrating art, science, and technology, students will deepen their understanding of wave properties while developing skills in collaboration, critical thinking, and communication. This project aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of wave phenomena and their real-world applications, culminating in a community 'Wave Festival' that celebrates student creativity and learning.

Learning goals

Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of mechanical and electromagnetic waves, identifying and illustrating their similarities and differences through animation. They will enhance their skills in animation software, applying creative techniques to accurately represent wave properties. Additionally, students will cultivate critical thinking and collaboration skills by engaging in peer reviews, expert interviews, and interactive project exhibitions. Through reflection and self-assessment, students will deepen their awareness of their learning journey and identify areas for growth.

Standards

NGSS - HS-PS4-1: Use mathematical representations to support a claim regarding relationships among the frequency, wavelength, and speed of waves traveling in various media.
NGSS - HS-PS4-3: Evaluate the validity and reliability of claims in published materials of the effects that different frequencies of electromagnetic radiation have when absorbed by matter.
Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.W.7: Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

Products

Students will create a collaborative mural or infographic that visually compares mechanical and electromagnetic waves, incorporating their own art and scientific explanations. Additionally, they will produce a podcast series featuring interviews with experts or peers about the impact of waves in various fields. These products will be showcased at the 'Wave Festival', where the mural or infographic will be displayed and podcast episodes will be available at listening stations.

Launch

Begin the project with a dynamic 'Wave Challenge Hunt' where students collaborate in teams to solve engaging puzzles and complete tasks related to mechanical and electromagnetic waves. This activity will spark curiosity and encourage critical thinking as students explore wave concepts. Follow this with a 'Creative Wave Jam,' allowing students to brainstorm and sketch initial ideas for their animation videos, using prompts and resources to dive into wave characteristics and animation techniques. Conclude the launch with a 'Wave Exploration Lab,' where students rotate through interactive stations demonstrating wave phenomena, setting a solid foundation for their upcoming animation projects.

Exhibition

Students will present their animation videos and mousetrap cars at the 'Wave Festival', transforming the classroom into an engaging gallery-style exhibition. Interactive stations will be set up where students explain wave concepts through hands-on demonstrations and listening stations featuring their podcast series. Families, peers, and teachers are invited to explore the creative and scientific displays, fostering a community celebration of the students' learning and creativity.

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Wave Challenge Hunt - Students collaborate in teams to solve puzzles and tasks to introduce them to mechanical and electromagnetic wave concepts (45 min)	Creative Wave Jam - Brainstorm and sketch initial ideas for animation videos focusing on wave characteristics using provided prompts and resources (45 min)	Wave Exploration Lab - Rotate through interactive stations demonstrating wave phenomena to understand wave properties and behaviors (45 min)	Introduction to Animation Software - Hands-on workshop to learn basic animation techniques and software tools relevant to wave representation (30 min) Concept Development - Begin drafting animation storyboards that illustrate mechanical and electromagnetic wave similarities and differences (15 min)	Storyboard Review - Peer review session to give and receive feedback on initial animation storyboards, focusing on wave representation accuracy (20 min) Reflection and Planning - Reflect on feedback received and plan next steps for animation development (25 min)
Deliverables	1. Completion of initial sketches and storyboard for animation video 2. Draft of podcast episode outline featuring interview questions and topics 3. Participation in 'Wave Challenge Hunt' with completed task sheet
Preparation	1. Set up interactive stations for 'Wave Exploration Lab' with simulations demonstrating wave phenomena 2. Prepare art supplies and sketching tools for 'Creative Wave Jam' 3. Organize materials for 'Wave Challenge Hunt', including puzzles and task sheets 4. Provide access to animation software and tutorials for hands-on workshops on animation techniques 5. Compile resources on wave properties for students to reference during brainstorming sessions 6. Coordinate guest speakers or experts for podcast interviews, including scheduling and topic selection 7. Arrange peer review sessions, including criteria for feedback on animation projects

Week 2	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Animation Workshop - Dive into animation software to learn techniques for illustrating wave properties with hands-on guidance (45 min)	Wave Storyboarding - Develop detailed storyboards for animation videos, focusing on creatively representing mechanical and electromagnetic waves (25 min) Peer Feedback Session - Share storyboard ideas with peers for constructive feedback on wave representation and creative techniques (20 min)	Podcast Planning - Brainstorm and outline podcast episode content, identifying key questions and expert topics related to waves (30 min) Interview Techniques - Practice interviewing skills and techniques for effective communication in podcast production (15 min)	Collaborative Mural Design - Sketch initial ideas for mural or infographic, integrating artistic elements and scientific explanations of waves (25 min) Drafting Mural Elements - Begin drafting individual components of the mural, focusing on the visual comparison of wave types (20 min)	Animation Progress Check - Present animation video progress to small groups, receiving targeted advice on wave representation (20 min) Wave Reflection - Use a self-assessment rubric to reflect on learning achievements and areas for improvement in wave understanding and animation techniques (25 min)
Deliverables	1. Completed storyboard for animation video 2. Initial draft of animation video 3. First design and prototype of mousetrap car 4. Draft script for the podcast episode
Preparation	1. Ensure access to animation software and tutorials for students. 2. Provide materials for mousetrap car construction including mousetraps, wheels, axles, and adhesives. 3. Organize a list of potential experts or knowledgeable peers for podcast interviews. 4. Set up peer review groups and prepare feedback forms to guide constructive criticism. 5. Arrange access to recording equipment for podcast production.

Week 3	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Animation Refinement - Enhance animation videos by incorporating feedback and ensuring accurate wave representation (20 min) Podcast Recording - Begin recording podcast episodes, focusing on clear communication and wave-related content (25 min)	Mural Finalization - Collaborate to finalize the mural or infographic, integrating feedback and ensuring clarity in wave comparison (25 min) Podcast Editing - Edit podcast recordings for clarity and quality, preparing episodes for the 'Wave Festival' (20 min)	Animation Final Review - Conduct a peer review session to provide final feedback on animation videos, emphasizing creativity and accuracy (20 min) Self-Assessment - Complete the self-assessment rubric to reflect on animation and wave understanding achievements (25 min)	Exhibition Preparation - Set up the classroom for the 'Wave Festival', organizing animation stations, mural displays, and podcast listening areas (30 min) Presentation Rehearsal - Practice explaining wave concepts and project outcomes to prepare for the exhibition (15 min)	Wave Festival - Showcase animation videos, murals, and podcasts to peers, teachers, and families, engaging in discussions about wave concepts (45 min)
Deliverables	1. Final animation video showcasing mechanical and electromagnetic waves. 2. Completed digital portfolio including the animation video, a reflective essay, and a wave comparison chart. 3. Prepared exhibition space for the 'Wave Festival', including all visual and interactive components.
Preparation	1. Ensure access to computers and animation software for final video edits. 2. Provide materials for exhibition setup, such as project boards, poster paper, and art supplies. 3. Organize technical equipment for the 'Wave Festival', including projectors, screens, and audio devices for podcast stations. 4. Coordinate guest invitations for the 'Wave Festival', ensuring space is prepared for visitors. 5. Distribute and review the 'Self-Assessment Rubric' with students to guide their reflections.