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A dragon's gentle footsteps

Try two comfortable drum sounds, then choose soft footsteps for an imaginary dragon.

Grade 1Science5 minutesAdult help needed
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Your discovery goal

Compare loudness by changing the strength of a gentle tap while keeping the instrument, tapping spot, and listening place the same.

A little help from a grown-up

Before you begin

Put the drum, or an upside-down plastic tub, securely on the table. Choose one tapping spot and keep the listener in the same place.

Let’s give it a try.

Tick each step as you go. There’s no rush to wonder.

Pause and wonder

What did you discover?

Identify a softer and a louder comfortable tap. If the two sound alike, say so and try again gently.