Performing a First - Hand Investigation
| Grade | Work Samples |
|---|---|
| End of Stage 5 (end of Year 10) | |
| Grade A | Ashley |
| Grade B | Ariel |
| Grade C | Bailey Jessie Cam Frances Huong |
| Grade D | Kerry Terry Jordan |
Description of Activity
Students are provided with a procedure to perform an investigation to test the strength of sticky tape. Students make and record their observations and measurements. In the scientific report they will present their findings and use the information to make predictions.
Performing the Investigation
Students will:
- collect the following equipment: 30 cm ruler, rubber band, various different adhesive tapes, scissors, biro(pen).
- tear off a piece of tape exactly 5 cm long.
- loop the rubber band around the tape and stick the tape to the bench.
- insert the biro through the rubber band and pull vertically upwards.
- record the height of the biro at the instant the tape pulls away from the bench.
- repeat steps b to e with different tapes.
Presenting and Processing the Information
Students will use an appropriate type of text to present a scientific report of their investigation.
Thinking Critically
Students:
- use the findings of their investigation to suggest one possible application of their results.
- predict what would happen if
- different sized rubber bands had been used
- different lengths of tape had been used
- different surfaces were used.
During this activity the teacher will observe each student performing the investigation and will assess the accuracy of his/her procedure.
Context:
Students have undertaken a large number of practical experiences in Years 7, 8 and 9. They have used an appropriate format that includes an aim, method, results and conclusion to write reports for investigations. Students have a double period to complete the investigation and write the report.
Areas for Assessment
Outcomes
A student:
5.14 undertakes first-hand investigation independently with safety and competence.
5.15 gathers first-hand data accurately
5.17 explains trends patterns and relationships in data and/or information from a variety of sources.
5.18 selects and uses appropriate forms of communication to present information to an audience.
5.19 uses critically thinking skills in evaluating information and drawing conclusions
Criteria for assessing learning:
(These criteria would normally be communicated to students with the activity.)
Students will be assessed on their ability to:
- follow a planned procedure when performing an investigation
- record observations and measure accurately over a number of trials
- use a scientific report to present the findings of an investigation
- think critically in making generalisations in relation to the results of their investigation.