Build a Noise Amplifier So Horton Can Hear the Whos
Prep Level: Minimal Prep
Time on Task: 20-30 minutes
Ages: 6-8 (adaptable for younger or older)
STEAM Focus: Engineering, Science, Art
Book Type: Fiction
Materials Cost: Free-Low Cost
The Whos are having a hard time being heard by anyone except Horton! In this story-based STEAM activity children will try to solve that problem using simple materials. They will design and test a noise amplifier to help their YOP be heard loud and clear. After reading the story, Horton Hears a Who, ask your child this question:
Can you build a device that will amplify the sound of your voice?
Everyday Household Materials
Materials
Book: Horton Hears a Who by Dr. Seuss
Everyday Household Materials: cardboard tube, paper or plastic cup, plain paper, scissors, tape
*Substitutions are encouraged
STEAM Challenge
- Read the story together and discuss the problem.
- Introduce the challenge: Can you build a device that will amplify the sound of your voice?
- Show children the materials they will have available to them.
- Allow children time to think and discuss their plan with others.
- Allow children time to sketch out a plan, if it helps them in their design process.
- Tell children that you will give them about 10 minutes to build their noise amplifier and that they will all do an initial test after the 10 minutes is up. *This has the potential to be a very noisy challenge. This will keep the children from testing out their noise amplifiers while others are still working.
- Allow children to test out their noise amplifiers.
- Ask them to take a moment to reflect on their design and encourage them to think of ways they can improve their design.
- Allow children to retest their noise amplifiers.
- Repeat the reflection and redesign process as often as needed or as time permits.
- Allow time for children to discuss their final design products.
- Follow the challenge up by researching sound, sound waves, amplification techniques, how shape affects sound, and sound inventions.
What kind of noise amplifier can you create?
Noise Amplifier
This is just one example. The possibilities are endless!
Notes for Success
Refer to the simplified Engineering Design Process (EDP) poster *link.
Questions to Ask
What did you think about this challenge?
What didn’t work the first time?
How did you make it louder?
What would happen if…?
Extend the Learning
What other materials might help with your amplifier?
What connections can you make to real-world inventions for voice amplification?
Try researching sound waves and what shapes affect sound.
Save your voice amplifier for future rebuilding and retesting.
Storage Tips
Reuse pieces for future challenges.
Reuse and Recycle!
You May Also Like
Link to similar stories, same STEAM focus, age range
Printables & Resources (if available)
Link to Recording sheets.
Link to Planning templates.
Link to Reflection pages.
Link to…