Sound Waves and Dolphins
Animals need to communicate, just like people do, and in this activity, students will learn how sound waves work by examining dolphin communication. Students will take on the role of scientists and use evidence of vocalization from Shedd Aquarium's dolphins to develop a model and construct an argument to support or disagree with an assertion about sound. This lesson brings waves, energy and sound alive through the stories of some of Shedd's most interesting animals.
Science Tech Treks are innovative field trip experiences where students take on the role of a scientist, using tablets to interact with and collect data on animals and their habitats.
Grades
Grades 3–5
Price
$95 per program
location
Shedd Aquarium
Key Concepts:
Sound waves, energy, amplitude, wavelength, pitch
Skills:
Develop a model, construct an argument, compare and contrast, make observations
Standards
- NGSS: 4-PS4-1, 4-PS4-3
- Amplify Connections: 4 – Waves, Energy, and Information
Accessibility
Program includes:
- Moving and standing for up to 1 hour
- Sitting on the floor for activities; chairs and tables are available
- Moving around the aquarium, which has varying light, noise and temperature levels
- The learning environment as part of this lesson may include the following sensory triggers: unusual noises-which may be loud, low or moderate; and, changes in lighting.
- Facilitators will be using portable voice amplification
- Viewing a tablet screen with videos/images and the use of headphones.
We believe there should be no boundaries to your Shedd Aquarium experience. If you have an accommodation request related to a disability, please contact us at [email protected] or 312-939-2438. We look forward to assisting you.
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Request a reservation online using the link on the program’s specific information page. Then, a member of our team will contact you to confirm your requested dates.
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We will try to schedule your trip and any learning programs for your first chosen date. If that date is not available, we schedule you for the next available date of your choice. You will receive a confirmation email informing you of the field trip and any program dates, start times and fees. If you have registered for a virtual field trip or learning program, a Shedd staff member will contact you to confirm these details.
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Yes, by digital connection and in person! For K-8 classrooms, our Live from Behind the Scenesprogram lets your students interact with Shedd's animal care experts.
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We require one chaperone for every 10 students, although one for every five is recommended. Teachers are counted in the chaperone-to-student ratio. Please note: There is an individual fee if your chaperones exceed a 1:5 ratio.
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Yes! We encourage teachers to visit so that they can prepare for their field trips. Educators from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin can visit Shedd free by registering for a pass online. Please note: While teachers are admitted free, their guests will be required to pay the full admission price.
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Price
$95 per program
Class Size
Up to 30 students
Duration
50 minutes
location
Shedd Aquarium