9th grade physcis – Science Teaching tips from Lee Trampleasure

Waves in a Spring: Teacher supplements as generated by Copilot AI.

Main post can be found here I had Copilot generate a quick key, list of common misconceptions, and CA NGSS alignment. I did a quick scan, and it looks pretty good, but use at your own risk. 1) Teacher Key / Expected Trends (by experiment) Context from the lab: Students investigate wave speed on a spring using four experiments (amplitude,...

March 23, 2026

Waves in a Spring: A Lab That Helps Students Figure Out What Really Controls Wave Speed

This lab engages students in an evidence‑based investigation of what determines wave speed in a spring, emphasizing experimental control and quantitative reasoning. By systematically varying amplitude, tension, distance traveled, and wave type, students test common misconceptions and use measured data to decide which variables meaningfully affect wave speed. The activity is designed to support sensemaking around wave–medium interactions while reinforcing core scientific practices such as controlling variables, analyzing uncertainty, and justifying claims with numerical evidence.

Category: 9th grade physcis

Waves in a Spring: Teacher supplements as generated by Copilot AI.

Waves in a Spring: A Lab That Helps Students Figure Out What Really Controls Wave Speed