Official U.S. government information about the
Global Positioning System (GPS) and related topics
GPS-BASED STEM CURRICULUM — MODULE 1: EARTH
Lesson 2: Do You Read Me?
Radio Waves, Magnetism, and Information Transfer
Overview
| Grade Level | Content Standards for 6-8th |
| Subjects | Physical Science, Earth, and Space Science |
| Duration | Preparation: Minimum (<15 min) Activity: 3 hours class time |
| Setting | Classroom with internet, video software and PowerPoint |
Objectives
In this lesson students will:
- Be able to define, describe and draw magnetic field lines around a single magnet
- Describe the interaction between like and unlike magnetic poles
- Be able to understand waves in various forms
- Understand how radio waves are used to transmit information
Activity Summary
In this lesson, student will explore magnetic forces, be introduced to radio waves and concepts involving the electronic transfer of information. The students will have an opportunity to work with magnets, engage in on-line simulations and in a physical activity to demonstrate how radio waves work.
Materials
- Lesson Brief (Start Here) -- Get 804.8 KB PDF
- PowerPoint Presentation -- Download 2.3 MB PPTX
- Video: Earth's Magnetic Shield -- Watch at youtube.com
- Activity: Magnetic fields
- Bar magnets (2 for each group of 2-3 students)
- Salt shakers of iron filings
- Wax papers
- Manila file folders
- Notebooks
- Activity: Morse Code
- Handouts – Get 325.3 KB PDF
- Jump ropes
- Video: Radio Waves -- Watch at NASA.gov
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