Teacher Resources for Instructional Planning


Grade 8, Science Std 12.1: Describe the electromagnetic spectrum in terms of frequencies. • Relating wavelength, frequency, and amplitude to energy. • Describing the general characteristics and nature of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Lesson Plans: Making Light of Science Students will be introduced to the idea that all light travels as waves, and that wavelength defines the various regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The Electromagnetic Spectrum Understand that the sun’s energy is transferred to Earth by electromagnetic waves. Understanding Waves Students will gain an understanding of the properties that all waves have in common. Wave Motion Identify the frequency, amplitude and phase of a wave. Identify and explain the difference between a transverse and longitudinal wave. Relate the concept of vibration to frequency and pitch. A simple laser communicator How would you like to talk over a laser beam? In about 15 minutes you can set up your own laser communication system, using cheap laser pen pointers and a few parts from Radio Shack.

Resources: Interactive Activities Gizmos for demonstrating interactions of waves Power of Light National Geographic multimedia presentation The Physics Classroom Lots of information related to light waves
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