Hearing

• Science
• Lower Secondary (Key Stage 3)

Hearing

True

False

Sound waves cannot travel in a vacuum.

The pitch of a sound depends on the amplitude of the wave.

Frequency is measured in decibels (dB).

Hearing improves with age.

Sound is caused by vibrating particles.

Sound travels fastest in a solid.

Which wave is louder?

1. A
2. B

Which wave is higher pitched?

1. Top
2. Bottom

Define amplitude.

Define wavelength.

Define frequency.

Ear Simulation

https://www.focuselearning.co.uk/programmes/?programme=essential-science-2018&page=sound/sound-ear

Label the ear.

Ossicles

Cochlea

Ear drum

Ear canal

Cochlea

Ear drum

Ossicles

Pinna

Auditory nerve

In what order do sound waves travel through the structure of the ear to the brain?

Ear canal

Ossicles

Ear drum

Cochlea

Match the structure to its function.

Converts the vibrations into electrical signals using small hairs.

Passes on vibrations to small bones.

Sends the electrical signals to the brain.

Outer part of the ear that channels the vibrating air.

Tube through which vibrating air particles pass along.

Small bones that amplify the vibrations.

Ossicles

Ear drum

Pinna

Ear canal

Cochlea

Auditory nerve

Explain why it might be a problem if the auditory nerve if damaged.

What is the unit of loudness?

Which sound fits into each section of the table?

0 dB	20 dB	40 dB	60 dB	80 dB	100 dB	120 dB	140 dB
Can't be heard			Normal speech			Pain threshold

Gunshot

Heavy traffic

Rustling leaves

Talking quietly

Plane taking off

Why do you think a loud sound can cause the ear drum to rupture?

 Which things could damage your hearing?

Damaging to hearing

Loud noises

Quiet sounds

A build up of ear wax

Head injury

Wearing ear defenders

Using cotton buds

What things can we use/do to reduce the risk of damaging our ears?

Explain why mobile phones have a warning level on headphones and will sometimes turn the volume down if you have been listening for a long time.