Ssssshhhhhh!

Plan and conduct an investigation into which material best reduces the sounds we hear.

Science Objectives
i) Recognise that vibrations from sounds travel through a medium to the ear.

ii) Recognise that sounds get fainter as the distance from the sound source increases.

Working Scientifically

1. Ask relevant questions and using different types of scientific enquiries to answer them.
2. Set up simple practical enquiries and comparative and fair tests.
3. Make systematic and careful observations and, where appropriate, take accurate measurements using standard units, using a range of equipment, including thermometers and data loggers.
4. Record findings using simple scientific language, drawings, labelled diagrams, keys, bar charts, and tables
5. Report on findings from enquiries, including oral and written explanations, displays or presentations of results and conclusions.
6. Use results to draw simple conclusions, make predictions for new values, suggest improvements and raise further questions.
7. Use straightforward scientific evidence to answer questions or to support findings.

Other Curriculum Areas
This session could be linked to a Design and Technology unit on creating a functional and appealing product aimed at particular individuals if more time could be spent on the design element of the ear defenders – including product design and marketing.