Sound Test: Hard Table

Why do some objects make loud sounds when dropped, while others make quiet sounds? In this hands-on worksheet, young scientists will drop a metal spoon, a pillow, a hand towel, and a rock onto a hard tabletop. Learners will determine which items make a louder sound, then figure out what characteristics those objects have in common. Then, students are asked to drop an object of their choosing and compare its sound to that of the previous items.

Geared toward kindergarteners through second graders, this activity will introduce students to the concept of sound energy and sound waves. When matter vibrates, sound energy travels to your ears, allowing you to hear it! As they learn about sound, this exercise also encourages learners to make predictions, describe matter, and compare results.

Check out Sound Energy #1 to keep learning.