Alexander Bell was born in Edinburgh Scotland to a hearing impaired mother and a father who was an expert in the voice. He worked diligently, following in his father's footsteps to help the deaf learn to communicate. He was exceptionally hard-working, and began scientific research into the resonance (vibrations) of the voice. This research eventually led to his invention of the first telephone in 1876.
In class activities:
- Watched the animated biography of Bell at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sgbGuRBLQA
- Used balloons to examine how sound travels in waves
- Mapped the travels of Bell
- Talked about solving "impossible" problems, and brainstormed inventions that we could make.
Optional Lesson Extension Activities:
- Look at historic images of the telephone at http://www.famousscientists.org/alexander-graham-bell/
- Listen to Bell's voice https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lJ6Pwb15JY
Assignment:
- In your best handwriting, write at least one sentence describing the problem that your chosen invention solves. Note: Try not to write too small. This will be added to your poster.
- Begin thinking about what you will be building (ex. a model of your chosen invention, a sample of what your invention can do) to place in front of your poster.
- Practice your timeline.
