Texas TEKS 2.8.C

Science2nd GradeForce, motion, and energy

The Standard

design and build a device using tools and materials that uses sound to solve the problem of communicating over a distance.

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Science

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students choose tools and materials, make a working sound device, and use it to send a clear signal. They test the device at different distances and change the design when the signal is unclear.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student can build a device that sends a recognizable message across a set distance. The student can point to test results and explain why a design change improved the signal.
Common Misconceptions: Students may think sound moves without vibrations or that louder sounds always travel better. Cup phones often fail because the string is loose, touches another object, or is not connected firmly.
How to Assess It: Give pairs two cups, string, and tape. In ten minutes, have them build a device, send one word across the room, and name one improvement.

Lesson moves

Pairs build cup phones with paper cups and string, test them at three distances, then tighten or shorten the string to improve the message.
Ask, “Which design choice helped your sound signal travel farthest, and what test evidence supports your answer?”
Play a secret-signal game where teams use taps, claps, or shakers to send a three-part code across the room.
Compare a doorbell, bicycle bell, and emergency siren, then choose which would communicate best across a noisy playground and explain why.

Free download

A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to 2.8.C, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.

PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.

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