Education
Guitar
What happens?
Another exhibit exploring sound. Visitors/children use their hands or fingers to strum the strings of the 'guitar'. Unlike a real guitar there are only five strings and no real frets. However, the strings are strung at different tensions and when plucked do make higher or lower sounds accordingly. There is also a sound box to provide some resonance and amplification to the sounds of the strings. When Start is busy however, visitors will have to lean close and listen carefully to hear the guitar.
How does it work?
Stringed instruments are a good way to demonstrate that sound is made by vibrations. When plucking the string it is just possible to see it vibrate back and forth. The tension and the thickness of the string both affect the sound it creates. A tighter or finer string will create a higher note. A looser or thicker string creates a lower note. The sound box of the guitar amplifies the sound by allowing the vibrations to resonate with the air inside the box.
Why is it important?
Sound is all around us and is an integral part of understanding the world. Visitors are encouraged to listen carefully and notice the different sounds they can create.
How does it relate to the curriculum?
- Provides opportunity for sharing and playing together.
- Exploring music and the senses.
- Simple cause and effect relationships.