Essential Question: How do scientists pose questions, seek answers and develop solutions?
Overview: Science is both a subject to be learned about and a way of learning. In this unit, students will learn how to:
approach problems,
collect information on those problems and
present that information in a way people can understand it
use the following tools in the classroom: ruler, triple beam balance, calculator and graduated cylinder
Students will practice these skills using personal interest surveys and comparing themselves to their classmates and to other classes in the grade. Using their own interests as data, they will learn to present the information graphically and in paragraph form. Students will engage in a variety of hands-on activities to practice their new skills and to review skills they already have (such as posing questions and hypotheses). The unit will end with students writing one formal lab report on the process of making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or the process of tying shoes (student choice).
Learning Targets:
I can asses why safety in the lab is important.
I can use my senses to make scientific observations.
I can use instruments to help me make better observations.
I can organize and graph my data
I can analyze results and draw conclusions for my investigation
I can explain phenomena in terms of scientific concepts.
Grading: Mastery Quizzes: 50 pts. Mastery quizzes are short quizzes that assess 2 – 3 learning targets. Your child will be given this quiz once the learning targets have been taught in class. The best way to prepare for these quizzes is by completing classwork and homework. If your child is struggling with homework assignments please contact us.
Mastery Quiz 1: will assess the following learning targets:
I can asses why safety in the lab is important.
Mastery Quiz 2: will assess the following learning targets:
I can use my senses to make scientific observations.
I can explain phenomena in terms of scientific concepts.
Mastery Quiz 3: I will assess the following learning targets:
I can use instruments to help me make better observations.
I can organize and graph my data
I can analyze results and draw conclusions for my investigation
Unit Test: 100 pts. Approximate date: (When the unit is complete) Students are expected to review their notes as preparation for this test.
Performance Task: 100 pts: Approximate date:_________________________ This is an in class assessment. It will consist of a task as well as a sample of questions that can be found on previous NY State Living Environment Exams. The sample questions will be both multiple choice and constructed response.
Culminating Project:100 pts. Students will write a formal lab report by following a template. They will write a testable question, compose a reasonable hypothesis and detailed procedure. They will then have someone else follow their procedure to see if the results are as expected.
Learning Activities Your child will be completing a variety of learning activities and Regents labs in class that reflect the learning targets for Unit 1. These will be graded, and you will be able to track your child’s progress online. Please remember that your child has a minimum of 1200 minutes required for labs in this course. All labs must have a passing grade.
Should you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your continued support.