Teaching article

Change a paper strip's free length and compare its pitch

Compare a controlled change to a vibrating paper strip.

Keep the material and attachment method the same while adjusting the free section. The comparison concerns the resulting vibration and sound; a louder tap or different strip would add changes that complicate the interpretation.

Keep the strip material and attachment method unchanged. Compare pitch using careful language rather than assuming faster means louder.

Length is the intended change

  1. Set a long free section.
  2. Repeat with a shorter section.
  3. Compare the sounds.

Shortening the free section can change its vibration and sound.

Loudness and pitch are different comparisons.

What was kept consistent? Describe visible movement too.

Resources

  • Reflection Journal Template — Record the setup, observations and a follow-up question; add a purpose-made diagram for this investigation.

Further reading

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