Preliminary Study to Support Sound Wave Concept Formation

—The Effectiveness of Using the Domino Wave as an Instructional Tool—

Abstract

Since sound waves pose peculiar difficulties for learners, an effective instructional device to support sound wave concept formation is desirable. In this study, as one means of achieving effective sound wave concept update, an original instruction method using domino wave was developed and then applied in a secondary school science class. Firstly, an experiment was held to allow learners to observe a domino wave and absorb the fact that the velocity of a wave source does not affect the propagation velocity of the wave, which is common among sound waves. Then, a group work was held to give the learners the opportunity to discuss the various similarities and differences between the two kinds of waves, followed by each group forming a consensus opinion on the similarity level. As a result, it seemed that the learners could successfully remediate their misconceptions and deepen their understanding of sound waves. The results of this study strongly implied that the domino wave is indeed useful as an instructional tool to foster effective sound wave concept formation.