UNIT: UkUlelE

ACT-Based Science: Resonance Experiment with a Sound Box

Objective:

Investigate how the ukulele body amplifies sound through resonance.

ACT Score Target: 24-27

STUDENT DIRECTIONS:

Goal:

Investigate how different ukulele body materials affect sound amplification through resonance, and connect this experiment to ACT Science skills like data analysis, interpretation, and reasoning.
Target ACT Score Range: 24–27

Step 1: Understand the Concept

Before beginning, review these key terms:

Resonance: When an object naturally amplifies sound vibrations.

Sound box: The hollow body of an instrument that increases sound volume.

Amplification: Making sound louder through vibration and resonance.

Step 2: Set Up Your Experiment

Materials Needed:

Tuning fork

Wooden ukulele

Plastic or metal ukulele (or boxes made from these materials)

Rubber mallet (to strike tuning fork)

Observation sheet

Step 3: Perform the Resonance Test

Strike the tuning fork with a mallet to make it vibrate.

Hold it near the sound hole of a wooden ukulele—without touching the wood.

Listen and observe:

Does the sound get louder?

How long does it sustain?

Repeat the same steps with a ukulele made from plastic or metal.

Record your observations in a table like the one below:

📊 Step 4: Analyze and Reflect

Which material produced the clearest and loudest resonance?

Which material sustained the sound the longest?

What does this tell you about how material choice affects sound quality?

In a short paragraph (3–5 sentences), explain why wood is commonly used for acoustic instruments using your data and the term "resonance."

ACT-Style Question:

Why does a wooden ukulele amplify sound better than a plastic one?

Wood is a better insulator

Wood has a denser molecular structure

Wood absorbs less energy and resonates better

Plastic amplifies sound more than wood