Electromagnetic Waves Are Everywhere!
Students work together to create posters focused on various kinds of electromagnetic radiation, such as visible light.Copyright 2020 Philip Bergmaier, Wyoming NASA Space Grant Consortium
In this three-part activity, students are introduced to the electromagnetic spectrum, learn about the devices that use electromagnetic waves, and become experts on one electromagnetic radiation device. This activity allows students to get an in-depth perspective on different devices and how they operate on the electromagnetic spectrum. It allows students to research and evaluate how engineers create new technology.
Electromagnetic radiation occurs naturally around us, such as sunshine, thermal radiation, radio interference from lightning strikes, and the signals that radio astronomers gather from space. Appliances like microwaves, televisions, and computers use electromagnetic radiation. Since different devices use electromagnetic radiation, each is confined to a specific part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Engineers decide what part of the spectrum to use, depending on where the device will best work, and what is allowed by regulation.
After the On the Same Wavelength activity, students should be able to:
- Determine the next number in a sequence.
- Categorize corresponding elements of the electromagnetic spectrum.
After the Electromagnetic Exploration activity, students should be able to:
- Discuss the electromagnetic properties of various devices in their world.
- Identify possible electromagnetic frequencies of devices.
- Make educated predictions as to how devices use electromagnetic radiation to function.
After the Device Jigsaw activity, students should be able to:
- Identify what type of electromagnetic radiation a device uses.
- Relate facts about devices to the electromagnetic spectrum.
- Research and present information about a device that utilizes electromagnetic radiation.