Physical Science: Laser light makes sound wave patterns visible

I built my own laser light sound visualizer. Using a tone generator and multiple tones you can create some awesome light patterns. We showed this to all of our physical science classes. The excitement of our classes was pretty cool. Many students stopped to take pictures of the oscillator and talked about building their own. The cost of the contraption was hardly anything, just the laser light.

Interactive Review Reading Log--Monday to Friday

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Reading Log

This is an activity-based reading log.

My idea behind this type of reading log is threefold.

1. Keep track of the books that students are reading and the time they are reading each day.

2. Practice a skill, based on reading, writing, and science standards as well as a review of previously taught standards to add more practice.

Using Atmospheric Pressure to Crush a Can Lab Sheet

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Atmospheric Pressure Crush Can

In this Earth Science lab, students will crush a soda can using atmospheric pressure. This is a common science experiment with a twist. In this version, students will calculate the total air pressure found on the outside of the can. The kids will take the surface area formula of a cylinder and find out about how many pounds of air is sitting on top of and around the can. This lab also attempts to incorporate math into a science class.

Understanding How a Barometer Works with High and Low Pressure Systems

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DIY Barrometers

In this Earth Science lab, students will create their own homemade barometers using a canning jar, a balloon, and a straw. The barometers can show low and high-pressure systems. After they build their barometers, students will complete a daily log, by measuring the height differences of their barometers. They will determine rising and falling barometers. Students will also observe the weather that is currently outside.