Waves-R-Us WebQuest
An Internet WebQuest on Waves
created by K. Heley
http://www.kn.sbc.com/wired/fil/pages/webwavesrk.html
Modified
by: Yvette R. Nicholson
Modified
Date:
Introduction | The
Task | The Process & Resources | Conclusion | HyperDictionary
Introduction
You've learned a great deal about waves and it's time to bring your knowledge to a new level. You are about to embark upon an independent project in which you will do some research and create a sales catalog. The culmination of your efforts should allow you to answer the QUEST of this WebQuest.
The Quest
What are the benefits and hazards of the waves that belong to the electromagnetic spectrum?
The Process and Resources
In this WebQuest you work for a company that produces and sells electromagnetic waves. Your job is to do extensive research on the company's products and then to design a catalog that will persuade customers to buy our product. You will also need to inform customers of the dangers of our waves. Because the websites you will use are real Webpages, not things made just for schools, the reading level might challenge you. Feel free to use the online Webster dictionary or one in your classroom.
Phase 1 - Background: Something for
Everyone
Use the Internet links below to answer the basic questions also listed below. Write your answers on a word document. Be creative in exploring the information, so that you answer these questions as fully and insightfully as you can. Also be sure to use your own words.
1. What is the electromagnetic spectrum?
2. How are electromagnetic waves formed?
3. How are electromagnetic waves different from mechanical waves?
4. What are the names of the two men who established the electromagnetic wave theory?
5. List the kinds of waves that make up the spectrum in order.
6. Explain the effects on frequency, wavelength, and energy as you move across the spectrum.
Phase 2 - Looking Deeper from Different
Perspectives
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You will play the role of a Sales Associate.
2. Read through the files linked to your group. Collect the information you need to complete the task by taking notes in your own words.
3. Note: Remember to write down the URL of the file you take the passage from, so you can quickly go back to it if you need to prove your point. This is also essential in writing your bibliography.
4. Be prepared to use what you learn in your catalog to convince your audience to buy different kinds of electromagnetic waves.Sales Associate
Use the Internet information linked below to answer these questions also. You need to answer the questions for each kind of wave in the electromagnetic spectrum. Put your answers in your own words on your own paper. You may also use Microsoft Word. You don't necessarily need to use complete sentences.
1. Explain the type of frequency and wavelength of the waves and the location on the spectrum.
2. Explain the practical applications of the waves.
3. Include any negative factors or health precautions.
4. Include future possibilities.
5. Find pictures to accompany your explanations.
Phase 3 - Debating, Discussing, and
Reaching Consensus
You have all learned about the different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. Now it is time to present your knowledge. You must design a catalog that will persuade the customers of Waves-R-Us to buy your products. Your catalog must have 1 page for each wave. You should include the benefits of each wave as well as a picture that relates. Your catalog should also have an introductory section that gives a general description of electromagnetic waves. Remember that you're trying to sell these products. Consider who your audience might be. Finally, your catalog should end with a bibliography that notes where your research and pictures came from.
Phase 4 - Real World Feedback
Scoring Rubric
A Catalog includes both a written description and a picture relating to radio waves, microwaves, infrared rays, visible light, ultraviolet rays, X-rays, and gamma rays. Descriptions include applications of the waves and any associated dangers. Catalog has an introductory section that describes electromagnetic waves in general and ends with an accurate bibliography citing text and picture sources. Information in catalog is accurate. Student's work shows much creativity, is well organized and neat.
B Either one picture related to the waves listed in category A is missing or one description is incomplete. Descriptions include applications of waves and some associated dangers. Catalog has an introductory section that describes electromagnetic waves in general and ends with an accurate bibliography citing text and picture sources. Information in catalog is mostly accurate. Student's work shows some creativity, is fairly well organized and neat.
C Picture and description related to one of the waves listed in category A is missing. Descriptions include applications of waves, but do not mention associated dangers. Catalog has an introductory section, but it weakly describes electromagnetic waves. The catalog ends with a bibliography citing text and picture sources. Information in catalog contains several errors. Student's work shows some creativity, but is poorly organized.
D Picture and description related to two or more of the waves listed in category A is missing. Descriptions include only a single application of each type of wave, and do not mention associated dangers. Catalog does not have an introductory section. The bibliography is inaccurate or incomplete. Information in catalog contains many errors. Student's work is disorganized and lacks creativity.
Your Contact is: Y. Nicholson
Conclusion
Now that you have learned all about the different kinds of electromagnetic waves, consider the following questions:
An engineer needs some electromagnetic waves to detect cracks in the joints of an oil pipeline. Which waves would you recommend? Explain why.
A customer doesn't believe your claim that electromagnetic radiation does not need a medium. How could you prove your claim is true?
Your company just purchased 10,000 fireflies. Why do you think they made this purchase?
I hope your work with the electromagnetic spectrum has been successful!
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Content by K. Heley, kheley@mail.tolland.ct.k12.us |
