Inquiry Unit
Information Theory
One of the traits that makes humans unique from other animals is our consciousness, the fact that we can remember concrete ideas, both actual memories and abstract thoughts. These brain activities are…
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Samuel Morse, American Electro-Magnet Telegraph Patent and Morse Code
Information Theory Unit
Samuel Finley Breese Morse, an accomplished painter and inventor, was convinced of the possibility of transmitting words using electricity and wires. In 1840 he patented "Improvement in the Mode o…
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Semaphore Telegraph
Information Theory Unit
An optical telegraph with a line of stations, typically towers, that was used to convey textual information by means of visual signals. It was comprised of pole on top of a tower, and a pivoting cross…
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Hands-on Activity
Make a Hand Drum
Electronic Music Inquiry Unit
This hands-on activity shows how to make a hand drum that creates percussion sounds. Materials Mini Glue Gun and Glue Stick Hole Punch Drawing Compass Thread or Yarn (Waxed thread wor…
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Inquiry Unit
Electronic Music
Chances are good that you and your friends don’t get your music in the same way that your parents did. Their generation was much more likely to hear a new song on the radio and go out to Sam Goody's…
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Telharmonium
Electronic Music Inquiry Unit
The Telharmonium - An Apparatus for the Electrical Generation and Transmission of Music In 1895 Thaddeus Cahill submitted his first patent for the Telharmonium “The Art of and Apparatus for Gener…
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Perforated Disk Siren
Electronic Music Inquiry Unit
Perforated Disk Siren From the Smithsonian, Museum of Natural History. Woodwind instruments are some of the oldest used instruments, and several flutes have been discovered which date between 35,0…
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Thomas Alva Edison’s Phonograph
Electronic Music Inquiry Unit
This document includes historical insight on Edison’s Tinfoil Phonograph, including presenting it to President Rutherford B. Hayes, as well as a demonstration to live audience. Visit Source 1 Vi…
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Cahill Patent
Electronic Music Inquiry Unit
Thaddeus Cahill's Patent: Art of and Apparatus For Generating and Distributing Music Electronically This document includes all ten photos from the Thaddeus Cahill patent and some of the written doc…
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Hands-on Activity
Skyscrapers Hands-On Activity
Skyscrapers Inquiry Unit
Skyscrapers Inquiry Unit Download PDF Skyscrapers Hands-On Activity Prompt for the students: Using only the materials provided, teams of students will design and build a structure as tall as p…
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