Wave Speed Calculations - AQA GCSE Physics Practice Book

Wave speed calculations require students to connect frequency and wavelength, two quantities that many struggle to define correctly. This AQA GCSE Physics workbook builds understanding alongside calculation skill with 12 scaffolded questions using the EVERY method framework.

The EVERY method breaks each calculation into clear steps: Equation, Values, Enter values into the equation, Rearrange if needed, Your units. Every question has a structured EVERY table for students to complete, building a consistent problem-solving habit. Questions get progressively harder: Q1-3 are straightforward, Q4-6 introduce unit conversions, and Q7-12 require rearranging the formula.

What’s inside:

• 12 progressive questions on Wave Speed (v = f x lambda)
• Structured EVERY method table on every question page
• Progressive difficulty: simple substitution, then unit conversions, then rearranging
• Self-assessment tracker with “What made me stuck?” reflection checklist
• Full worked answers for all 12 questions using the EVERY method steps

AQA specification reference: 6.6 Waves (Combined Science and Triple Physics)

Wave speed calculations require students to multiply frequency by wavelength. Contexts include sound waves, water waves, and electromagnetic waves. Students also need to convert units (e.g. kHz to Hz, cm to m) and rearrange the formula.

Common student mistakes this workbook addresses: confusing frequency with period (T = 1/f), not converting wavelength units before substituting, mixing up wave speed with the speed of sound or light, and reading wavelength from a diagram incorrectly (measuring half a wavelength).

Suitable for AQA GCSE Combined Science and Physics (Triple). Works for both foundation and higher tier students.