Three main factors determine the wave height experienced in the ocean. Scholars use a virtual simulator to alter wind speed, fetch, and duration. Each combination creates a unique wave measured in significant height.

Concepts

waves, wave energy, wave motion, wind speed

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

science

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• If possible, visit a museum, college science lab, or another location with a full-scale wave machine
• Come up with a series of challenges (i.e. What combination of the three variables would create a significant height of 4.6 feet?) for pupils to work through

Classroom Considerations

• Relies on prior knowledge of waves, ocean water, and wind speed

Pros

• Intuitive controls allow for less instruction and more hands-on time
• Highlights definitions using a tool on the simulator

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.6.2 SL.7.2 SL.8.2 SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 RST.6-8.4 RST.9-10.4 RST.11-12.4