In this area of study, students adapt or design and then conduct a scientific investigation to generate appropriate primary qualitative and/or quantitative data, organise and interpret the data, and reach and evaluate a conclusion in response to the research question.

Research questions may relate to different scientific methodologies that involve the generation of primary data, controlled experiments, fieldwork, correlational studies, classification and identification, modelling, and the development of a product, process or system. Students may extend their knowledge and skills related to understanding motion by designing and undertaking investigations such as, ‘What are the energy transformations during a theme park ride?’, ‘What are the forces experienced by a netballer’s ankle?’, Is momentum conserved in a football tackle?’ and ‘What is the optimal design of the lightest capsule that is able to prevent an egg breaking during a drop?’. Video analysis can be used to investigate questions such as, ‘Is kinetic energy conserved in a pole vault?’. Questions may be used as a starting point for the investigation, such as ‘Does the shape of the cornea or the material of the lens have a greater effect on refraction?’, ‘How do the structures of winged seeds affect their dispersal?’ and ‘How do buttresses affect the stability of a church?’, or further questions may be posed that have arisen from the options in Unit 2, Area of Study 2.

Part 1: Investigation Design - You will have 1 lesson (1 hour) in class to research, plan and design the experiment. 

Part 2: Practical Investigation - You will have 2 lessons (2 hours) in class to conduct the experiment based on your design in Part 1 and collecting the data for your Poster. 

Part 3: Scientific Poster – You will have 4 lessons (4 hours) to write your Poster based on your research in Part 1 and Part 2.