Seismic Waves: Earth's Hidden Secrets

Uncovering Earth's Interior Through Wave Analysis Grade 8 Science 45-Minute Journey into Earth's Layers

Think-Pair-Share: What Do You Know?

Think: What happens during an earthquake? Pair: Share your ideas with a partner Share: Volunteers tell the class Let's activate our earthquake knowledge!

Meet the Wave Duo: P-waves and S-waves

Two main types of seismic waves travel through Earth P-waves (Primary waves) - the speed demons S-waves (Secondary waves) - the followers Each wave tells us different secrets about Earth's interior

P-waves vs S-waves: The Ultimate Wave Battle

{"left":"P-waves: Primary waves\nTravel fastest through Earth\nCompressional waves (push-pull motion)\nCan travel through solids AND liquids","right":"S-waves: Secondary waves\nTravel slower than P-waves\nShear waves (side-to-side motion)\nCan ONLY travel through solids"}

Wave Motion Demonstration

Stand up and become a seismic wave! P-wave motion: Push your hands forward and back S-wave motion: Move your hands side to side Which motion feels more energetic?

Journey Through Earth's Layers

Detective Question: Why Do S-waves Stop?

Observe the simulation carefully What happens to S-waves when they reach the outer core? Why might this happen? What does this tell us about the outer core?

Seismic Waves: Earth's Secret Messengers

Scientists use seismic waves like X-rays for Earth P-wave and S-wave arrival times reveal layer properties Wave speed changes tell us about material density This is how we discovered Earth's liquid outer core!

Seismic Wave Worksheet Challenge

Work with your partner to complete the worksheet Use evidence from our simulation Explain your reasoning for each answer Think like a real Earth scientist!

Exit Ticket Reflection

I can explain the main differences between P-waves and S-waves One new thing I learned today is... One question I still have is... Rate your understanding: 1-5 stars