• 6-8: 4F/M4. Vibrations in materials set up wavelike disturbances that spread away from the source. Sound and earthquake waves are examples. These and other waves move at different speeds in different materials.
• 6-8: 4F/M7. Wave behavior can be described in terms of how fast the disturbance spreads, and in terms of the distance between successive peaks of the disturbance (the wavelength).

• 3-5: 11B/E3. A model of something is similar to, but not exactly like, the thing being modeled. Some models are physically similar to what they are representing, but others are not.
• 6-8: 11B/M2. Mathematical models can be displayed on a computer and then modified to see what happens.
• 6-8: 11B/M4. Simulations are often useful in modeling events and processes.

• 5-8: Transfer of Energy

Mechanical waves can be modeled well through computer simulations that depict the motion of particles as the wave disturbance travels through a material.  This web-based tutorial for grades 6-12, developed by the University of Utah's ASPIRE Lab, is an excellent visualization tool for students.  Don't miss the water wave simulation.  It clearly shows the repeating pattern of a periodic wave, helping students understand that the particles oscillate but are not propelled forward by the wave.

• Physical Sciences K-8 Types of Mechanical Waves Unit
• Physics First Types of Mechanical Waves Unit
• Conceptual Physics Types of Mechanical Waves Unit
• Algebra-Based Physics Types of Mechanical Waves Unit