Science fun - The sound machine

The sound machine game is a fun activity for a group of children. For this game, it's just as much fun to watch the light reflect on the wall as it is to speak into the sound machine. Encourage children to take turns being the observer as well as the sound maker.

What this activity will develop:
Science skills

What you'll need:Tin canCan openerBalloonScissorsLarge elsatic bandSmall piece of mirrorGlue

Setting up:

Remove both ends of the can (an adult should do this). Be sure that there are no sharp edges left on the can. Stretch the balloon by blowing it up several times (an adult should do this). Cut a large section from the balloon. Stretch the balloon section over one end of the can, using the elastic band to hold it in place. Glue the small piece of mirror onto the balloon, slightly off-centre.

What to do:

Use a sunny room that has a shaded wall next to the window. Hold the can so that the sunlight is reflected from the mirror onto the wall. Speak into the open end of the can. Watch the reflection on the wall move. Experiment with sound by speaking in a lower-pitched voice and then a higher-pitched one. Or try singing into the sound machine. Notice how the light moves. As your voice changes, how does the reflection on the wall change?

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