Today I collected the booklets for the first part of our scientific process. Students had a wide range of questions and we had a few activities or demonstrations. The foundation for your experiment is the hardest part.
Here is an excellent link from Steve Spangler that explains the difference between a science demonstration (activity) vs a science experiment. Your student needs to come up with a question about science that has an independent variable (something they will change) and a dependent variable (something they will measure). Below are some examples:
- Can lemon juice turn pennies green?
- What liquid will keep fruit from turning brown?
- Which (brand of something) is the strongest?
The students should now use their question to research information about their project and it's components. Look up how the parts work, brands or chemicals involved, research what has been done already. They will then write a hypothesis. The hypothesis should include the independent variable and the dependent variable with a reason for their thinking.
- I think lemond juice will turn pennies green because it is an acid.
- I think water will keep fruit from turning brown because it will keep the air away from the fruit.
- I think zip lock baggies will be stronger than glad baggies because they are thicker.
Hypothesis is due Feb. 4th. Please DO NOT start the experiment at home. We will disucss materials lists next week. Thank you!
