SRP

Here are some ideas for a student research project and experiment based on Stage 5 Science (NSW Syllabus) that you can work on independently:

·        Investigating the effects of different types of fertilisers on plant growth: Set up an experiment with several pots of the same type of plant, and use different types of fertilisers (e.g. organic, inorganic, liquid, granular) on each pot. Monitor and measure the growth of the plants over time and analyse the results to determine which type of fertiliser has the most significant impact on plant growth.

·        Exploring the relationship between temperature and enzyme activity: Choose an enzyme (e.g. amylase, catalase) and investigate how its activity changes with temperature. Design and conduct experiments to measure the enzyme activity at different temperatures and analyse the data to determine the optimal temperature for the enzyme’s activity.

·        Investigating the factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis: Set up an experiment to investigate the effects of different factors (e.g. light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, temperature) on the rate of photosynthesis in a plant. Measure the rate of oxygen production or carbon dioxide uptake and analyse the data to determine which factor has the most significant effect on photosynthesis.

·        Studying the effects of pollution on aquatic ecosystems: Choose a local water body (e.g. river, lake, pond) and investigate the effects of pollution on its ecosystem. Collect water samples from different locations along the water body, analyse them for pollutants (e.g. pH, nutrient levels, heavy metals), and study the impacts on the aquatic organisms and their habitats. Develop recommendations for mitigating the pollution effects based on your findings.

·        Investigating the properties of different materials for insulating heat: Design and conduct experiments to investigate the insulating properties of different materials (e.g. foam, fabric, paper, plastic) to prevent heat transfer. Measure and compare the heat retention or heat loss of each material under controlled conditions and analyse the data to determine which material is the most effective insulator.

Remember to carefully plan and conduct your experiment, collect and analyse data, and draw conclusions based on your findings. Also, follow safety guidelines and seek guidance from your teacher or a mentor throughout your research project. Good luck!

Here are five specific project ideas for each of the topics mentioned:

1.      Investigating the effects of different types of fertilisers on plant growth:

a.      Comparing the growth of tomato plants treated with organic compost, inorganic granular fertilizer, liquid seaweed fertilizer, and no fertilizer to determine which type of fertilizer results in the healthiest and tallest plants.

b.      Studying the effects of different concentrations of phosphorus-based fertilizers on the growth of bean plants to determine the optimal phosphorus concentration for maximum growth.

c.      Investigating the impact of different types of nitrogen-based fertilizers (e.g. ammonium nitrate, urea) on the growth of wheat plants to determine which type of nitrogen fertilizer promotes the best yield.

d.      Comparing the effects of commercially available organic and synthetic fertilizers on the growth of lettuce plants to determine which type of fertilizer is more effective in promoting leaf growth and overall plant health.

e.      Studying the effects of different ratios of NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) fertilizers on the growth of sunflower plants to determine the optimal NPK ratio for maximum flower production.

2.      Exploring the relationship between temperature and enzyme activity:

a.      Investigating the activity of amylase enzyme at different temperatures (e.g. 20°C, 30°C, 40°C, 50°C) using a starch and iodine solution to determine the temperature at which amylase is most active.

b.      Studying the effect of temperature on the activity of catalase enzyme in potato slices by measuring the rate of oxygen gas released at different temperatures (e.g. 10°C, 25°C, 40°C, 60°C) to determine the temperature at which catalase denatures.

c.      Investigating the effect of temperature on the activity of invertase enzyme in yeast by measuring the rate of sucrose hydrolysis at different temperatures (e.g. 25°C, 30°C, 35°C, 40°C) to determine the temperature at which invertase is most active.

d.      Comparing the temperature optima of different enzymes (e.g. amylase, catalase, lipase) by conducting experiments to measure their activity at various temperatures, and analysing the results to determine the temperature range at which each enzyme is most active.

e.      Studying the effect of temperature on the activity of rennin enzyme in milk by measuring the time taken for milk to coagulate at different temperatures (e.g. 10°C, 20°C, 30°C, 40°C) to determine the optimal temperature for rennin activity.

3.      Investigating the factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis:

a.      Studying the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis in spinach leaves by exposing them to different light intensities (e.g. low light, moderate light, high light) and measuring the rate of oxygen production or carbon dioxide uptake to determine the light intensity that maximises photosynthesis.

b.      Investigating the effect of carbon dioxide concentration on the rate of photosynthesis in aquatic plants (e.g. Elodea or Cabomba) by varying the carbon dioxide concentration in the water and measuring the rate of oxygen production or carbon dioxide uptake to determine the optimal carbon dioxide concentration for photosynthesis.

c.      Studying the effect of temperature on the rate of photosynthesis in a water plant (e.g. Hydrilla or Egeria) by exposing it to different temperatures (e.g. 10°C, 20°C, 30°C, 40°C) and measuring the rate of oxygen production or carbon dioxide uptake to determine the optimal temperature for photosynthesis.

d.      Investigating the effect of leaf color on the rate of photosynthesis by comparing the photosynthetic activity of

Here are some specific products and equipment that you might need to undertake the projects mentioned above:

Investigating the effects of different types of fertilizers on plant growth:

Organic compost, inorganic granular fertilizer, liquid seaweed fertilizer (can be purchased from a local gardening store)

Tomato seeds or other suitable plant species for experimentation

Plant pots or containers

Potting soil

Measuring instruments (such as a ruler or tape measure) for measuring plant height

Data recording materials (such as a notebook or spreadsheet) for recording observations and results

Exploring the relationship between temperature and enzyme activity:

Enzyme solutions (such as amylase, catalase, invertase, or rennin) which can be purchased from a scientific supply store or obtained from a biology laboratory.

Substrates for enzyme reactions (such as starch, hydrogen peroxide, sucrose, or milk)

Test tubes or cuvettes for conducting enzyme assays.

Water baths or incubators for maintaining different temperatures.

Colorimetric or spectrophotometric equipment for measuring enzyme activity (such as a spectrophotometer or colorimeter)

Data recording materials for recording observations and results

Investigating the factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis:

Aquatic plants (such as Elodea, Cabomba, Hydrilla, or Egeria) which can be purchased from a local aquarium or obtained from a biology laboratory.

Light source with adjustable intensity (such as a lamp or LED light) for controlling light intensity in photosynthesis experiments

Carbon dioxide source (such as a gas cylinder or baking soda) for manipulating carbon dioxide concentration in aquatic environments

Water baths or heaters for controlling temperature in photosynthesis experiments

Oxygen or carbon dioxide gas sensor or probe for measuring gas exchange during photosynthesis

Data logging equipment for recording real-time measurements of photosynthetic parameters

Data recording materials for recording observations and results

Note: Always ensure proper safety precautions are followed, and consult with a teacher, supervisor, or mentor before conducting any experiment. Some experiments may require additional permits or approvals, so be sure to check with relevant authorities.

Here's a guide for students on how to successfully complete their independent research project:

Step 1: Choose a Research Topic

Consider your interests and passions to select a research topic that motivates you.

Review the Stage 5 Science NSW syllabus to ensure your project aligns with the curriculum requirements.

Discuss your research topic with your teacher, mentor, or supervisor to ensure it is feasible and suitable for independent research.

Step 2: Develop a Research Plan

Conduct a literature review to gather information on existing research and knowledge related to your topic.

Identify the research question or problem you want to investigate and formulate a hypothesis.

Plan your experimental design, including the materials, equipment, and methods you will use.

Create a timeline or schedule to manage your time effectively and set deadlines for each stage of the project.

Step 3: Conduct Your Experiment

Follow your research plan and conduct your experiments carefully and accurately.

Record detailed observations, measurements, and data during your experiments.

Use appropriate controls and replicate your experiments to ensure reliable results.

Seek guidance from your teacher, mentor, or supervisor when needed and keep them updated on your progress.

Step 4: Analyse Your Data

Organize and analyse your data using appropriate statistical or graphical methods.

Interpret your results and compare them with your hypothesis and existing research.

Draw conclusions based on your findings and explain their significance in relation to your research question.

Step 5: Prepare Your Report

Write a comprehensive report that includes an introduction, methods, results, and conclusion sections.

Include clear and concise descriptions of your experimental design, data, and analysis.

Use appropriate scientific language and cite your sources properly.

Create visual aids (such as graphs, tables, or diagrams) to present your data effectively.

Proofread your report for grammar and spelling errors, and format it according to scientific writing conventions.

Step 6: Prepare Your Presentation

Create a visual presentation (such as a poster or PowerPoint) to showcase your research.

Practice presenting your research in a clear and engaging manner.

Prepare for questions and feedback from your teacher, mentor, or peers.

Be confident and enthusiastic about your research during your presentation.

Step 7: Reflect on Your Experience

Reflect on the challenges, successes, and lessons learned during your research project.

Evaluate your research process, methodology, and results critically.

Consider potential improvements or future directions for your research.

Discuss your findings and insights with your teacher, mentor, or peers.

Step 8: Submit Your Project

Submit your final research report and presentation to your teacher, mentor, or supervisor according to the agreed-upon deadline.

Celebrate your accomplishment and be proud of your independent research project!

Remember, throughout your research project, it's important to maintain good communication with your teacher, mentor, or supervisor, seek guidance when needed, and adhere to ethical considerations and safety precautions. Good luck with your independent research project!

Here's a sample 7-week project plan that follows the design development process for a student research project:

Week 1:

Choose a research topic based on your interests and curriculum requirements.

Conduct a literature review to gather information on existing research and knowledge related to your topic.

Formulate a research question or problem to investigate and develop a hypothesis.

Discuss your research plan with your teacher, mentor, or supervisor for feedback and guidance.

Week 2:

Refine your research question and hypothesis based on feedback received.

Develop a detailed research plan, including the experimental design, materials, equipment, and methods to be used.

Create a timeline or schedule to manage your time effectively and set deadlines for each stage of the project.

Week 3:

Gather and prepare the materials and equipment needed for your experiment.

Conduct pilot experiments or trials to familiarise yourself with the experimental procedures and make any necessary adjustments.

Record detailed observations, measurements, and data during your pilot experiments.

Week 4:

Conduct your main experiment according to your research plan.

Record and analyse your data, and check for any inconsistencies or errors.

Seek guidance from your teacher, mentor, or supervisor when needed, and make adjustments to your experiment if necessary.

Week 5:

Analyse your data using appropriate statistical or graphical methods.

Interpret your results and compare them with your hypothesis and existing research.

Draw preliminary conclusions based on your findings and discuss them with your teacher, mentor, or supervisor for feedback.

Week 6:

Refine your experimental design and data analysis based on feedback received.

Write your research report, including the introduction, methods, results, and conclusion sections.

Create visual aids (such as graphs, tables, or diagrams) to present your data effectively.

Week 7:

Finalise and proofread your research report, ensuring it adheres to scientific writing conventions.

Prepare your visual presentation (such as a poster or PowerPoint) to showcase your research.

Practice your presentation and prepare for questions and feedback.

Submit your final research report and presentation to your teacher, mentor, or supervisor by the agreed-upon deadline.

Note: The timeline and duration of each stage may vary depending on the complexity of your research project and available resources. It's important to manage your time effectively and seek guidance from your teacher, mentor, or supervisor throughout the project.

Marking Guide for Stage 5 Science Research Project

The Stage 5 Science Research Project is an opportunity for students to conduct an independent investigation of a scientific question or problem. The following marking guide outlines the criteria for assessing student work in this project:

Grade | Description of Achievement

Limited | The student demonstrates a limited understanding of the scientific method and struggles to develop a research question or hypothesis. The project is incomplete or poorly executed, and the student provides little or no evidence of scientific investigation or data analysis.

Basic | The student demonstrates a basic understanding of the scientific method and develops a research question or hypothesis. The project is generally complete but may lack depth or originality. The student provides some evidence of scientific investigation or data analysis.

Sound | The student demonstrates a sound understanding of the scientific method and develops a well-defined research question or hypothesis. The project is well-executed and shows evidence of independent thought, creativity, and originality. The student provides a clear and detailed explanation of the scientific investigation and data analysis.

Thorough | The student demonstrates a thorough understanding of the scientific method and develops a sophisticated research question or hypothesis. The project is highly original, well-executed, and shows evidence of independent thought, creativity, and originality. The student provides a comprehensive and detailed explanation of the scientific investigation and data analysis.

Extensive | The student demonstrates an extensive understanding of the scientific method and develops a highly original and complex research question or hypothesis. The project is exceptionally well-executed and shows evidence of exceptional independent thought, creativity, and originality. The student provides an in-depth and highly detailed explanation of the scientific investigation and data analysis, and demonstrates mastery of scientific concepts and techniques.

Criteria for Achievement:

Understanding of the scientific method:

Limited - Demonstrates a limited understanding of the scientific method

Basic - Demonstrates a basic understanding of the scientific method

Sound - Demonstrates a sound understanding of the scientific method

Thorough - Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the scientific method

Extensive - Demonstrates an extensive understanding of the scientific method

Development of research question or hypothesis:

Limited - Struggles to develop a research question or hypothesis

Basic - Develops a research question or hypothesis

Sound - Develops a well-defined research question or hypothesis

Thorough - Develops a sophisticated research question or hypothesis

Extensive - Develops a highly original and complex research question or hypothesis

Scientific investigation and data analysis:

Limited - Provides little or no evidence of scientific investigation or data analysis

Basic - Provides some evidence of scientific investigation or data analysis

Sound - Provides a clear and detailed explanation of the scientific investigation and data analysis

Thorough - Provides a comprehensive and detailed explanation of the scientific investigation and data analysis

Extensive - Provides an in-depth and highly detailed explanation of the scientific investigation and data analysis, and demonstrates mastery of scientific concepts and techniques.

Independent thought, creativity, and originality:

Limited - Provides little or no evidence of independent thought, creativity, or originality

Basic - Shows some evidence of independent thought, creativity, or originality

Sound - Shows evidence of independent thought, creativity, and originality

Thorough - Shows evidence of exceptional independent thought, creativity, and originality

Extensive - Shows exceptional evidence of independent thought, creativity, and originality.

Communication of results:

Limited - The project is incomplete or poorly executed, and the student provides little or no evidence of scientific investigation or data analysis.

Basic - The project is generally complete but may lack depth or originality. The student provides some evidence of scientific investigation or data analysis.

Sound - The project is well-executed and shows evidence of independent thought, creativity, and originality. The student provides a clear and detailed explanation of the scientific investigation and data analysis.

Thorough - The project is exceptionally well-executed and shows evidence of independent thought, creativity, and originality. The student provides a clear and detailed explanation of the scientific investigation and data analysis.