Investigating scientifically
| Grade | Work Samples |
|---|---|
| End of Stage 2 (end of Year 4) | |
| Grade B | Casey |
| Grade C | Morgan Jordan |
Foundation Statement strands
The following strands are covered in this activity:
Description of activity
Students independently identify a question to be tested, develop a design, plan and conduct the investigation. They draw a conclusion as to whether their prediction is supported by the results of their test.
Instructions:
- Students identify a question which can be tested in an investigation.
- They develop a design idea for a fair test for the investigation.
- They make a prediction of the possible results of the investigation.
- Students record a plan of the investigation to test their prediction, including the equipment they will use and how they will make accurate measurements.
- They select and use safely appropriate equipment to conduct the investigation.
- Students collect data, record and analyse the results.
- Students draw a conclusion as to whether their prediction is supported, based on the results.
Suggested materials
Paper, pencils, ice cubes, non toxic dyes, plastic containers, plastic spoons/paddle-pop sticks, ruler, stopwatch, seeds, strips of fabric
Prior learning
This task on scientific investigation is a small part of a Science and Technology unit of work that is integrated with learning in Mathematics. Students are provided with opportunities to apply knowledge, understanding and skills developed through related aspects of the Working Mathematically and Measurement strands of the Mathematics K-6 syllabus to real world situations. They identify questions relevant to and of interest to them and through engaging in a variety of first-hand experiences in investigating, designing, making and using technology they extend their understanding of how measurement can be used in the process of investigating scientifically. In this activity students work independently and use their ideas and understanding of observing, questioning, predicting, testing, collecting, recording, analysing data and drawing conclusions in designing and conducting an investigation.
Outcomes
Investigating (INV S2.7)
Conducts investigations by observing, questioning, predicting, testing, collecting, recording and analysing data and drawing conclusions.
Using Technology (UTS 2.9)
Selects and uses a range of equipment, computer-based technology, materials and other resources with developing skill to enhance investigation and design tasks.
Criteria for assessing learning
Students will be assessed on their ability to:
- Identify independently a question to be tested.
- Design and record an investigation that is a fair test for the question.
- Predict the results of the test.
- Select and safely use a range of appropriate equipment in the investigation.
- Collect accurate data, record and analyse results.
- Draw a conclusion based on the results.