Module 4 - Scientific Inquiry

Activity 1 : : Activity 2 : : Activity 3 : : Activity 4 : : Activity 5

Activity 5: TaskStream

Now that you've completed module 4, you are ready to complete ISA4 Task 1 in TaskStream. Go to www.Taskstream.com and start on Task 1.  (Note: BUS, IT, and ISC5 students do not take the ISA4 and do not complete any of the performance tasks listed in this course of study.  They are however, still responsible for the content found in the tasks which will be on the objective exam.)

• Read the instructions for Task 1.  Use the TaskStream instructions along with the Sample Report to complete this task.
• Read Thinkwell 102.5.2 section 2.1 "Applying the Scientific Method".
• Choose a science topic that interests you.  There are websites in Activity 3 of this module that give lists of various project ideas.  Investigate the relationship between two variables rather than demonstrating a science topic.  Make sure you have a quantitative way of measuring your results using a measurement tool and measurement units appropriate to your topic.
• Conduct an Internet search and find 2-3 experiments that relate to your topic, summarize them, and keep a record of your references.
• Identify an independent and dependent variable for your topic. Write your problem statement. Refer to the websites in this module for information on writing a hypothesis and identifying variables (independent and dependent variables).
• View the Sample ISA4 Task One Science Report by following the links provided. Task 1 Instructions after Sept. 15, 2008. The sample report provides examples of labeled diagrams (blank template, data table, and graph).
• Follow the TaskStream instructions and the sample report to conduct your experiment and write the report. When you have completed the report, compare it to the Task Checklist provided below.

TASK CHECKLIST – Part A (Project Design – completed before performing the experiment)

1. Include a clear description of your project (refer to Thinkwell 102.5.2 section 2.2.1 “Determining the Question”).
2. Summarize two similar experiments that other people have completed (articles, websites, etc.).
3. Cite the references for the similar experiments using in-text citations (refer to the sample report for examples and Thinkwell 102.5.2 section 2.1.7 "Designing a Scientific Inquiry").
4. Explain the sequence of events for the experiment (How will the problem statement be tested?).
5. Identify the independent and dependent (refer to Thinkwell 102.5.2 sections “Experimental Design” and “Components of an Experiment”, Guided Learning Tool, Module 4, Activity 3 website “Variables”).
6. Identify the controlled variables - all the factors that are held constant in each trial (Guided Learning Tool, Module 4, Activity 3 website “Variables”).
7. Explain how the design plan controls factors other than the independent variable (refer to Thinkwell 102.5.2 section “Experimental Design”).
8. Identify the sequence of events that will be used to collect experimental data.
9. Explain the tools that will be used to collect the data (ruler, watch, etc.).
10. Identify the measurements units that will be used to collect the data.
11. Include a blank template that shows how you are going to record your data (refer to the sample report for examples).

TASK CHECKLIST – Part B (Scientific Report – completed after performing the experiment)

1. Include a clear problem statement that explains the relationship two variables (How does the type of fertilizer affect bean plant growth?).
2. State the hypothesis so it shows the proposed relationship between the variables (refer to Thinkwell section “Reviewing the Scientific Method --> Hypotheses” and Guided Learning Tool, Module 4, Activity 3 website “Variables”).
3. Describe the actual data collection process and equipment (tools) used.
4. Explain how you ensured the quality of your data using a clear sequence of events.
5. Explain the measurement units you used to ensure the quality of your data.
6. Summarize your data and explain what happened to your variables during the experiment.
7. Include two graphics/diagrams - data tables, bar graph, line graph, pie chart, etc.  (refer to the sample report for examples and Thinkwell 102.5.2 section “Data Collecting and Reporting).
8. Include a conclusion that explains why the results of the experiment are valid (Thinkwell 102.5.2 section 2.2.3 “Identifying Common Pitfalls).
9. Explain how the data collected supports or rejects the hypothesis.
10. Explain how someone else could replicate your experiment (Thinkwell 102.5.2 section 2.3.3 “Conveying Conclusions”).