The Scientific Method
The Scientific Method
Objectives
In this unit, students understand that specific steps are involved when scientists conduct investigations. Students will:
- recognize famous scientists from Pennsylvania and their contributions to science.
- understand that scientists use specific steps when conducting investigations.
- understand that investigations may or may not answer questions.
- understand that some investigations lead to more questions.
- identify science skills that students use every day.
- describe objects in the world using the five senses.
Essential Questions
Related Unit and Lesson Plans
Related Materials & Resources
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Materials haven't been entered into the unit plan.Formative Assessment
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Multiple-Choice Items:
1. In the scientific method, you _______________
A
write a book.
B
cause a problem.
C
ask a question.
D
sing a song.
2. An investigation helps you find_______________
A
an answer.
B
a problem.
C
a paper.
D
a story.
3. What does the Sun provide the Earth with?
A
Rain
B
Water
C
Wind
D
Light
4. What did the flashlight act like in the investigation?
A Water
B Sun
C Earth
D Rain
5. We use rules in experiments and investigations to keep us _______.
A Safe
B Happy
C Sad
D Curious
Multiple-Choice Answer Key:
1. C
2. A
3. D
4. B
5. A
Short-answer Items:
6. Place these steps in order from 1–4.
___Investigate.
_____Ask a question.
______Make a plan.
_____Find a solution.
7. List two things needed for a rainbow outside.
_____________________________________________________________
Short-Answer Key and Scoring Rubrics
6. Place these steps in order from1–4.
_3__Investigate. __1___Ask a question.
___2___Make a plan. __4___Find a solution.
7. List two things needed for a rainbow outside.
Points
Description
2
The student lists two items, such as:
- water
- sun
1
The student lists one item, such as:
- water
- sun
0
The student did not list any items.
Performance Assessment:
I have a bag of M & M’s.
Read each sentence that tells about an investigation. Match the sentence with the step.
Sentences Steps
Put the candies into color groups. Ask a question.
How many colors of candy are in the bag? Find a solution.
I know how many colors of candy are in the bag. Make a plan.
I think I will open the bag and count the pieces. Investigate.
Performance Assessment Answer Key and Scoring Rubric:
Points
Description
4
The student matches all four of the sentences with the appropriate step.
3
The student matches three of the sentences with the appropriate step.
2
The student matches two of the sentences with the appropriate step.
1
The student matches one of the sentences with the appropriate step.
0
The student demonstrates lack of understanding or does not attempt to complete the assessment.
DRAFT 04/19/2011
