Wave Interactions with Matter Interactive Simulation | Physical Science | Grades 6–8

This Interactive Simulation has grades 6–8 Middle School Physical Science students run a hands-on classroom model of Wave Interactions with Matter.

Driving question: "How do surface textures, boundary angles, and material densities govern wave reflection, refraction, and absorption?" Objective: Measure angles of incidence, reflection, and refraction using optical ray benches and acrylic prisms to verify the law of reflection and Snell's refraction behavior.

What's inside: objective and background, a materials list (One red diode ray laser (650 nm, with…; One circular 360-degree optics…; One planar front-surface glass mirror…; One semi-circular optical acrylic block…), an 8-step protocol, a data table, 4 analysis questions, and teacher notes.

Resource type: Interactive Simulation (.docx). Format: editable Microsoft Word lab handout with approximately 660 words (~4 pages).

Classroom use: a team investigation in a Middle School Physical Science course. Grades 6–8.

Format note: These files are delivered in Microsoft Office formats (Word and/or PowerPoint). If you open a worksheet that includes tables in Apple Pages or another non-Microsoft app, table formatting may not display correctly. For best results, use Microsoft Word or PowerPoint (or upload the file to Google Docs). If you run into any formatting issues, contact us and we can send a PDF version.