Observing and Keeping Records

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Intended Grade Level(s):
4-5
Learning Goal(s):

Students will review scientific observations methods learned earlier and the application of those methods for the solar energy unit. Students will practice observations and data recording. Students will explain the importance of selecting useful variables from which they can collect data. Students will be prepared to implement an experiment in the classroom that they can draw conclusions from.

Unit:
Understanding Energy
Lesson Number:
7
Pedagogy & Practice:
Establishing a Culture of Science
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations
Relevant NGSS PE:
4-PS3-2,
4-ESS3-1
Estimated Activity Length:
40 min
Files Associated with this Activity:
PDF icon lesson7.pdf
Description:

Students will review basic scientific observation methods and the importance of keeping and reporting accurate observations. Teacher will discuss with students the different types of variables that they can use in order to gather data and make conclusions. They will additionally discuss some of the problems that can arise from comparing unrelated variables. This lesson is largely an area for the teacher to formulate a preferred strategy for collecting data and ensure that there is a formalized process that students understand, as well as review previously discussed components of the scientific method and data collection during experiments. 

Other Material(s) Used:
Solar energy spiral notebook