LuduminaWA-02 · WA-U1 · Planned
Wave measurements and equations
Learning objectives
Measure amplitude, wavelength, period and frequency; calculate wave speed.
8463 §§4.6.1.2 / 8464 §§6.6.1.2
DfE single-science pp.37–39 / Combined pp.32–33. Evidence checked 30 September–1 October 2026. Skills: WS4.2,4.5; MS1c,3b,3c,4a.
Needs firstWA-01; P0 rates
Explanation
Wavelength is separation between equivalent points on successive waves, while period is time for one cycle. Frequency counts cycles per second. Keep time traces distinct from spatial snapshots; their horizontal axes have different units.
Concepts, equations and units: v=fλ; T=1/f; v m/s, f Hz, λ m, T s; amplitude m; time trace versus spatial trace.
Prediction, demonstration and game exercise
Predict, observe, explain
Compare snapshots and time traces; count cycles over several periods and measure several wavelengths.
Planned learner game exercise
Tune a wave maker to a target wavelength/speed; choose the correct measurement axes.
Independent practice
Four equation/conversion questions and diagram labels; distinguish wavelength from crest height.
Original practice example · Shared
A wave has f = 5 Hz and λ = 0.40 m. Find speed and period.
Show working and model answer
Working / reasoning
v = fλ = 5 × 0.40 = 2 m/s; T = 1/f = 1/5.
Answer
2.0 m/s and 0.20 s.
Exit check and success criteria
Three calculations correct plus correct amplitude/wavelength labels.
During practice, compare the prediction with evidence and give an error-specific prompt. The exit item uses a fresh context or fresh values, answered independently.
Misconceptions, practical links and mastery
Check these misconceptions
Frequency equals wave speed; wavelength measured from crest to trough; amplitude is peak-to-peak.
Practical preparation
RP-P8/RP-C20 preparation; AT1,4.
Virtual preparation and revision only. Required hands-on activities and school records remain separate.
Proposed mastery
0: not yet evidenced. 1: supported. 2: independent exit criteria met. 3: successful changed-context transfer. Advance at 2; revisit with fresh retrieval. These are not GCSE grades.