Waves, Sound & Light: Homeschool Curriculum - Videos & Lessons

About This Chapter

The Waves, Sound and Light unit of this High School Physical Science Homeschool course is designed to help homeschooled students explore examples of sound and waves in physical science. Parents can use the short videos to introduce topics, break up lessons and keep students engaged.

Who's it for?

This unit of our High School Physical Science Homeschool course will benefit any student who is trying to learn about the sources and properties of sound waves. There is no faster or easier way to learn about physical science. Among those who would benefit are:

Students who require an efficient, self-paced course of study to define waves and vibrations and learn how waves transmit energy without transmitting matter.
Homeschool parents looking to spend less time preparing lessons and more time teaching.
Homeschool parents who need a physical science curriculum that appeals to multiple learning types (visual or auditory).
Gifted students and students with learning differences.

How it works:

Students watch a short, fun video lesson that covers a specific unit topic.
Students and parents can refer to the video transcripts to reinforce learning.
Short quizzes and a Waves, Sound and Light unit exam confirm understanding or identify any topics that require review.

Waves, Sound and Light Unit Objectives:

Explore volume and pitch in sound waves.
Explain factors that affect the speed of sound.
Learn about wave parameters, such as wavelength and amplitude.
Discuss decibel scale and frequency.
Learn the seven main regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Give examples of longitudinal and transverse waves.
Explain wave propagation.

8 Lessons in Chapter 13: Waves, Sound & Light: Homeschool Curriculum

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1. Vibrations and Waves: Energy and Motion

What is a wave? What causes waves, and how do they travel from one place to another? This lesson will guide you through the basics of waves. We'll discuss their origins from vibrations and investigate how they carry energy through a medium.

2. Wave Propagation

After watching this video, you will be able to explain what wave propagation is, and describe the factors that affect the speed of wave propagation. A short quiz will follow.

3. Wave Parameters: Wavelength, Amplitude, Period, Frequency & Speed

How do we measure and describe waves? How do waves differ based upon their shapes? This lesson will guide you through the five wave parameters - period, frequency, amplitude, wavelength, and speed - that we use to characterize waves.

4. Transverse & Longitudinal Waves: Definition & Examples

What comes to mind when you think of a wave? Chances are your mental image takes the form of a transverse wave. But, longitudinal waves are just as important, and understanding the difference is vital to learning about waves. In this lesson, explore both types of waves and the unique characteristics of each.

5. What is Sound? - Definition and Factors Affecting the Speed of Sound

Explore the minute workings of sound waves and how they travel. We'll discuss the main factors that affect the speed of sound waves, and we'll try some mathematical problems involving the wave equation.

6. Pitch and Volume in Sound Waves

What do pitch and volume mean when talking about sound waves? Further your understanding of sound waves in this lesson as we explore the more familiar aspects of sound. We'll learn about pitch and volume and how they relate to sound wave parameters.

7. Electromagnetic Waves: Definition, Sources & Properties

In this lesson, learn the basics of electromagnetic waves and how they make up the electromagnetic spectrum. We will explore the major trends and categories within the spectrum, as well as the various sources of electromagnetic waves.

8. The 7 Major Regions of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

This lesson will walk you through each of the major regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Explore the unique characteristics of X-rays, microwaves, radio waves, UV rays, infrared, gamma rays, and of course, visible light.

Chapter Practice Exam

Test your knowledge of this chapter with a 30 question practice chapter exam.

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Practice Final Exam

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Visit the High School Physical Science: Homeschool Curriculum page to learn more.

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