Science Experiments
Science is in the business of asking questions, making observations, forming hypothesis, performing experiments, analyzing data, and then forming conclusions and publishing the information.  For the next few weeks you will be "doing science" by running through that process with a topic of your choice.  You will be getting specific instructions and resources from me along the way and doing some of the work in class, but most of this project will be done on your own time and outside the classroom.  Below is a list that should help you manage your time.

1. Review the scientific method and experimental design from unit 1.
2. Browse a variety of resources that list experiment ideas (ie. websites, ScienceWorlds, textbook, alumni)
3. Think of some topics that interests you as well as a specific questions to ask.
4. Determine the project category
   (design/build/test/improve --- the effect of this on that --- quantitative comparison --- teaching model / proof of concept)
5. Post two or three ideas on the form and monitor the spreadsheet (shown below) for my comments and suggestions.
6. Wait for my approval (when the line on the spreadsheet turns blue)
7. Read some Science World articles on writing procedures, then write yours.
8. Write the topic, description, question, materials (budget), procedure, and method of data collection.
   
9. Conference with me about your proposal and revise as needed.  
   
10. Create a "control sheet" G-doc, customize it, and share with me and parents.
11. Fill out the "measurements and units" form (view examples here)
12. Explain your project to your parents (use the sheet from step 9) and get their approval (signature).
    
13. Perform your experiment and gather data.
14. Read some Science World articles on organizing and displaying data, then do yours (ongoing)
15. Analyze your data and write some conclusions
16. Post all of the information about your experiment onto the science page of your website (use Lab Report format)
1. Title
2. Purpose (Question)
3. Hypothesis
4. Materials & Procedure
5. Data & Observations
6. Analysis & Conclusion
7. Confounds (Possible Sources of Error)
8. Future Work
17. Present your experiment page to a parent and another adult and get feedback
18. Present your experiment to the class, including process, findings, what you learned, and possible next steps