Using sound and music to teach waves

Abstract

Sound and music are based on the properties of waves. They are also motivating topics for learning many subjects, from music to physics. The most recent “New Generation Science Standards” (NGSS) requires coverage of waves at all K-12 levels. Studies have shown that active student involvement is important in science education for helping the students understand physical concepts. These facts imply that music and acoustics are perfect avenues for teaching the concepts of waves. Even at the college level, non-science majors can understand how music and physics are related through the understanding of wave phenomena. There are many demonstrations, laboratory investigations and hands-on group activities that can be done at all levels. This paper suggests ways to incorporate sound and music to present waves at the levels of middle school, high school, and beginning college.