How Ears Hear Sounds

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Objective

I can describe how the ear helps us hear sounds.

Part 1 of 4

Warm-up video

SciShow Kids · 8:22Vetted channel

We don't generate video — this one is by SciShow Kids on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.

Part 2 of 4

Key concepts

3 concepts

  1. 1

    The auricle, or the flappy part of the ear, helps to collect soundwaves and directs them into the auditory canal.

  2. 2

    The middle ear amplifies soundwaves and moves the signal to the inner ear using three tiny bones.

  3. 3

    The cochlea, which is shaped like a snail shell, contains liquid and tiny hairs that send signals to the brain.

Part 3 of 4

Practice

3 questions

1

What is the first part of the ear that soundwaves encounter?

2

Describe the function of the tiny hairs inside the cochlea.

Part 4 of 4

Exit ticket

Quick comprehension check

Describe the path that a sound wave takes as it enters your ear and is processed by your brain.

Sample answer included in the free materials

Get the materials

Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format

  • Teacher Guide

    Complete lesson plan with answer keys and alternate activities

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