Carry out a practical investigation in a biological context.
A practical investigation is an activity covering the complete process: planning, carrying out, processing, interpreting data, and reporting on the investigation. It will involve the collection of primary data. It is expected that the student will have opportunity to make changes to their initial method as they work through the investigation. The nature of the investigation could be the manipulation of variables (fair test), the investigation of a pattern, or relationship, or the use of models.
- developing a statement of the purpose, linked to a scientific concept or idea, and written as a hypothesis
- using a method that describes:
- for a fair test: the independent variable and its range, the measurement of the dependent variable and the control of some other key variables
- for a pattern seeking or modelling activity: the data that will be collected, range of data/samples, and consideration of some other key factors
- collecting, recording, and processing data relevant to the purpose of the investigation
- interpreting the processed data and reporting on the findings of the investigation
- identifying relevant findings from another source
- stating a conclusion based on interpretation of the processed data which is relevant to the purpose of the investigation.
- using a valid method that describes:
- for a fair test: a valid range for the independent variable, the valid measurement of the dependent variable and the control of other key variables, with consideration of factors such as sampling bias and sources of errors
- for a pattern seeking or modelling activity: a valid collection of data with consideration of factors such as sampling bias and sources of errors
- collecting, recording, and processing reliable data to enable a trend or pattern (or absence) to be determined
- stating a valid conclusion based on the processed data in relation to the purpose
- explaining the biological ideas relating to the investigation. The explanation is based on both the findings from the investigation and those from other source(s).
- justifying the choices made throughout the investigation by evaluating the validity of the method or the reliability of the data
- stating a conclusion that discusses the biological ideas relevant to the investigation and either the findings of others, scientific principles, theories, or models.
With guidance refers to the teacher supporting the student throughout the investigation. The teacher negotiates the parameters for the investigation with the student. This may be related to suitability of organisms, equipment and resources available, and possible modifications or new directions related to the student investigative ideas. The investigative process is student driven.