Physics Year 11 - Module 3 - Lesson 13
Evidence That Sound Is a Wave
1. Key Ideas
We do not call sound a wave just because it is convenient. We call it a wave because it shows the behaviours waves show: reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference, and standing waves. The job in this lesson is to evaluate that evidence clearly.
- The five key wave behaviors shown by sound
- Why reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference, and standing waves support the wave model
2. Success Criteria
By the end, you should be able to:
- The five key wave behaviors shown by sound
- Examples of each behavior in real contexts
- That sound is mechanical and light is electromagnetic
3. Key Terms
4. Activity: Build the Lesson Map
Use the lesson to complete the table. Keep answers brief but specific.
| Prompt | Your answer |
|---|---|
| Main concept | |
| Important example | |
| Common mistake to avoid | |
| How this links to the next lesson |
5. Short Answer Questions
1. 7. Explain how echoes provide evidence that sound behaves as a wave.
2. 8. Describe one piece of evidence for sound diffraction and explain why it supports the wave model.
3. 9. Evaluate the claim "sound is basically the same as light because both are waves." Include one similarity and one important difference.
6. Extend: Apply the Idea
A student gives a memorised answer about Evidence That Sound Is a Wave but does not use evidence or reasoning.
Improve the answer by writing a stronger response that uses accurate terminology, a relevant example and a clear explanation.
7. Multiple Choice
1. What is the best first step when answering a question about Evidence That Sound Is a Wave?
A. Identify the key concept being tested
B. Write every fact from memory
C. Ignore the command word
D. Skip examples and evidence
2. Which answer would show stronger understanding of Evidence That Sound Is a Wave?
A. An answer with accurate terms and reasoning
B. A copied definition only
C. A single-word response
D. An answer with no example
3. What should you do if a question asks you to explain?
A. Link the idea to a reason or cause
B. List unrelated facts
C. Only draw a diagram
D. Write the shortest possible answer
8. Success Criteria Proof
Finish with evidence that you can do each success criterion.