Science·Waves, Light & Sound·conceptual
Wave Properties & Types
Describe waves in terms of amplitude, wavelength, frequency, and wave speed; distinguish transverse waves (oscillation perpendicular to direction of travel) from longitudinal waves (oscillation parallel); and use the wave equation v = fλ
Suggested ages 11–12
Evidence of understanding
- Labels a wave diagram with amplitude, wavelength, crest, and trough
- Distinguishes transverse and longitudinal waves and gives an example of each
- Uses v = fλ to calculate wave speed, frequency, or wavelength given the other two
- Explains what happens to wavelength if frequency increases while wave speed stays constant
Assessment prompt
If Wave Properties & Types was asked to describe a wave and how fast it travels, could they sketch one, label the wavelength and amplitude, and use the wave equation to work out speed from the frequency and wavelength?
Standards alignment
MS-PS4-1US · ngss-ms
MS-PS4-1
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Middle School
KS3.Sci.Phys.Waves.1GB · uk-nc-2013
Properties of Waves
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3
KS3.Sci.Phys.Waves.2GB · uk-nc-2013
Wave Speed, Frequency and Wavelength
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3