Mississippi Science PHY.4.5
The Standard
- PHY.4
- Students will investigate and explore wave properties.
Design, investigate, and collect data on standing waves and waves in specific media (e.g., stretched string, water surface, and air) using online simulations, probe systems, and/or laboratory experiences.
2026 Mississippi College- and Career-Readiness Standards for Science · Waves
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students choose a string, water tray, or air column and plan a test that changes one factor. They collect wave measurements and identify nodes and antinodes when a standing wave forms.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student can keep string length and tension fixed, change the driving frequency, and record two stable wave patterns. They can measure the distance between nodes and use it to find wavelength.
Common Misconceptions
- Students often label the points that move most as nodes. They may count each loop as a full wavelength or assume a higher frequency makes waves travel faster through the same string.
How to Assess It
- Show a sketch of a 1.2 m string with three equal loops and fixed ends. Ask students to mark the nodes, calculate the wavelength, and name one factor to keep fixed when changing frequency.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Stretch a slinky between two students, shake one end at two steady rates, mark stationary points on the floor, and measure their spacing.
Draw two standing-wave patterns with two and three loops; ask students how the wavelengths compare if string length stays fixed.
Use a wave simulation to make one, two, and three loops; record the frequency and node spacing for each pattern.
Pluck a guitar string open and fretted, record each pitch with a tuner app, and connect the change to vibrating length.
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Printable PHY.4.5 Worksheet
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