Super Science Sleuth

An exciting way to introduce your students to the scientific method!

Nicole Satchell

Most teachers already know that…

• Many concepts (especially complex ones) are perceived to be boring by students

• Retention of knowledge is poor

• Everyone (including you) is frustrated

What is a teacher to do????

Create your lesson to be…

• Engaging• Hands-on• Student-centered• Relevant to everyday

life

Introducing…

• Super Science Sleuth! An exciting way to introduce your students to the scientific method which will ensure (hopefully) knowledge mastery!

The “Problem-Based Learning” Model will be used to introduce the lesson. This model enables the students to:

• “Learn to learn”• “Work cooperatively in groups”• “Seek solutions to real world problems”• “Find and use appropriate learning resources”• http://www.udel.edu/pbl/• Quotes above from Barbara Duch

Sweet and Sour

• Students will work cooperatively to “solve” the iced tea mystery

• Groups will design an experiment and be assessed by their peers and the teacher

• Next, the students will view a “Super Science Sleuth” PowerPoint presentation

• This presentation will be split into three main parts:

•Steps of the scientific method and definitions of key terms

•Experimental Design Guide

•Research Tips

Once students have completed this module, they will be able to:

Draw logical conclusions based upon observations and analyzed data

Design an experiment which will include the presence and manipulation of variables (independent, dependent, controlled)

Create a graphical display of result data

Research a chosen topic to determine which independent and dependent variables to be tested, and which variables to hold constant (controlled).

As a final task in becoming a Super Science Sleuth,

• Students will be given their own Experimental Design Worksheet to create an experiment about a topic of interest. This worksheet will be the basis of their Science Fair Project.

For completion of this unit, there will be two assessments:

• A formal (traditional) exam which will test students’ knowledge mastery of the content matter (steps of the scientific method, experimental design, pertinent vocabulary terms)

• A performance assessment will be administered. This assessment will challenge the students to evaluate a sample experimental design and note any flaws in logic or methods used by the scientist.

Once this is done, you will have a room full of…

Super Science Sleuths!!!!!