Challenge Science

Experimental Design

Project Guide

Student Name ______

Teacher ______

SCIENCE PROJECT TIME LINE

Here is a time line to help you complete the steps of your project. Be sure to read and follow the instructions in this guide and to check the Experimental Design Project Scoring Guide as you work through each step of your project.

Date DueCompletedSteps

______Begin a log book. Write down possible topics and ideas for your project. Include at least three testable qustions.

______Select a topic.

______Gather background information and list of sources. (3-5 sources needed)

______Decide on the problem and the hypothesis. Define your independent variable (IV), dependent variable (DV), and constant conditions (CCs).Submit the Experimental Design Diagram to your teacher for approval.

______List the materials and write the procedure. Prepare a data table for recording results.

______Collect the materials you will need and do a dry run of your procedure to be sure that it is going to work as planned. Make changes to the procedure (if needed).

______BEGIN the experiment. Run at least THREE trials of your procedure and collect data using metric measurements.

*If you are planning to submit your project to the Parkway Science Fair, take photographs or draw pictures being sure NOT to include peoples’ faces.

______Finish gathering data and construct a graph that shows the averages of your results.

______Write the conclusion and complete progject analysis of your project.

Your completed project report is due on ______.

HOW TO DO A SCIENCE EXPERIMENT PROJECT

Keep a Log Book

The log book is the single most valued piece of work in your project. Begin with a record of possible topics/ ideas, areas of interest. This is your personal record of your experimental design project.

Your log book should include the following:

  • Hand-written,datedrecord of all work done on a project
  • Detailed notes of every step of the project (e.g. all notes on background information, all observations, all plans and actions, all data, and all thoughts, reflections, and conclusions).
  • DO NOT include names of any people in your log book or final report. (Acknowledge by refering to them as “teacher,” “parent,” etc.)
  • Reading notes, articles and data
  • Decisions(e.g. “I’ve decided to experiment with plants.”)
  • Actions (e.g. “Today I went to the library to find books on my topic. I found a lot of books..”“I set up my planters with grow lights, and I took pictures of them to show my progress.”)
  • Observations (e.g. “I noticed that the plants are starting to wilt, so I need to water them more.”

“The crystals are very fragile. I will need to take lots of pictures in case they break.”)

  • Thoughts and Reflections (e.g. “I noticed that many of the seedlings are dying. I wish I had used more seeds. I'm worried that all my plants will be dead before the experiment is finished.”
  • Resources/References – You must give credit to the people whose thoughts and ideas you are using. Include the author and title of the book or magazine. Magazines must also include the title of the article. Electronic sources need the URL address.
  • Rough Drafts – experimental set-up, data table, graph, final report, etc..

Select a Topic

For many students, one of the most difficult parts of a science experiment project is selecting a topic. It is a challenge to decide on a topic that is original and interesting. An experiment can be done on many things. Topics do not have to be “science stuff"! In other words, you do not have test tubes, microscopes, batteries, etc. Begin with your interests. Do you like sports? Run a test on techniques used in sports. Do you like cooking? Alter a recipe and measure the results. Do your parents work in a field in which a test could be run: building industry, art, media, photography, etc.? WRITE DOWN ALL YOUR IDEAS IN YOUR LOG BOOK.

One approach that students can successfully use for generating an idea is using the Experimental Design Brainstorming Page.

Another way of selecting a topic is finding an experiment in a book or by searching the internet. When you find an interesting experiment, alter the experiment to make it different by changing the independent variable.

For example, “What is the effect of adding paper clips on the nose of a paper airplane on flight distance?"

IV: the number of paper clips on the nose of the paper

DV: flight distance

Constants: same size of paper, same airplane design, same kind of paper clips,

same amount of thrust to fly the plane, same breeze less hallway, and

same angle of release.

By making one of the constant variables the independent variable, you can come up with several “new" experiments.

Once you have decided on a topic, you can write a testable question in the form of:

What is the effect of _____ on the ___?

(IV) (DV)

Gather Background Information

The purpose of the background information section is to research several aspects of the topic. Ultimately the information gathered determines the hypothesis.

Getting Started:

  • Brainstorm key words/concepts associated with your topic. (e.g. If the topic is magnets, some possible key words could be: poles, magnetism, magnet types, etc.)
  • Research what is ALREADY known about the topic. This could include information gathered from books, magazines, the Internet, and professionals in a related field. You could contact government agencies or professional organizations that might provide free information.
  • Get the details about what is being investigated.
  • TAKE LOTS OF NOTES IN YOUR LOG BOOK!
  • Remember to cite your sources!

Experimental Design Set-up

Experimental Design Diagram

You can use the Experimental design diagram to help in setting up your experiment.

Independent Variable (IV): Variations in IV: Control:
Dependent Variable (DV): Unit of Measurement: Measurement Tool:
Constant Conditions (CCs): (List at least five to seven!)
Testable Question: (“What is the effect…” of the IV on the DV.)
Hypothesis: (“If…, then…”)

Define the Variables

First, determinethe independent variable (IV) and how it will be manipulated/changed (IV variations).

IV - mass of the airplane

Variations – 0, 1, 2 & 3 paperclips added to the airplane

Next, identify the dependent variable and tell out how you will measure (metric units) or describe it.

DV - length of flight (meters)

Then identfy at least three constant conditions (CCs). These variables must not change.

CCs - same size and weight paper, airplane folded exactly the same way, launched the same

way, same location, same wind conditions.

Testable Question

Testable questions are generally stated in one of these forms:

What is the effect of _____ on the ____?

(IV) (DV)

How does the _____ affect the _____?

(IV) (DV)

Examples of properly-worded testable questions:

What is the effect of adding mass on the distance traveled by a paper airplane?

How does adding mass affect the flight distance of a paper airplane?

Form a Hypothesis

A hypothesis is a specific prediction about the relationship between the IV and the DV.

Your hypothesis must include the IV and DV and be written in “If....., then....” format. It tells what you predict will happen with the dependent variable in the project.

Ifmoremassis added to a paper airplane, thenits flightdistance will decrease.

(IV) (DV) (prediction)

List the Materials

Make a list of all materialsand quantities you need to do the project. Record in your log book.

Write the Procedure

A procedure is a step-by-step list of what you are to do in the experiment. It must tell everything that should be done in order to repeat the experiment exactly. Be prepared to revise your procedure several times in your log book until it gives all the directions someone else would need to duplicate the experiment.

Important Points:

Number the steps and give very specific instructions. All methods need detailed explanations.

Begin each sentence with an action verb (example: fold, use, fly, aim, collect, conduct, repeat).

Write in third person. Do not use personal pronouns (I, me, we, etc.).

All measurements must use metricunits.

Be sure you have a control. A control is a run of the experiment where the independent variable is not changed or manipulated in any way. A control is a base for comparison that allows you to see what result is produced when you change the IV. Without a control you cannot be sure that changing the independent variable causes your observations. Be sure to clearly identify the part of your procedure that represents your control. Some experiments do not lend themselves to a control.

Alter your IV at least three times. This will give you a total of four “variations ” for your IV.

Tell how many trials (repetitions) are to be done. Your experiment should include at least three trials.

Conducting the Experiment

Collect your Materials and Do a Dry Run

  1. Gather the materials and tools needed for conducting the experiment.
  2. Conduct a dry run to determine if the experiment “works” the way you intended.
  3. Make any necessary revisions. Include any changes made to the procedure in your log book.

Prepare a Data Table

Design a data table for recording your measurements. The title of a data table is the name of the dependent variable. Each change of the independent variable is a column heading and each row is a trial or sample. Be sure to include metric measurement units for both variables. Seek help from a parent or teacher if you can’t figure out how to set up the data table.

Example:

Title : The effect of __(IV)______on ____(DV)___

Variations in the IV / Describes the DV (what you are
measuring and UNITS) / Average
Trial 1 / Trial 2 / Trial 3
Lists each IV
tested

Run the procedure

  • Follow your procedure exactly. Don’t take shortcuts that can produce errors in your data.
  • Record all measurements in your data table in your log book. Calculate an average of the results for all trials.
  • Take photographs of your materials, important steps in the procedure, and the results of your experiments. Try not to get any faces in your photographs. If you do, you will need to cover any faces before using them for your project.
  • Make written observations of what you noticed during the experiment. What did you see happening? What was unexpected? What problems did you encounter? Keep careful notes of everything you do and everything that happens. Observations are valuable when drawing conclusions, and are useful for locating experimental errors.

Create a Graph

A graph is a visual display of your averaged data. The independent variable is labeled on the x-axis (horizontal axis) with its units of measurement. The averaged dependent variable is on the y-axis (vertical axis) Use a line graph if the changes of the independent variable can be described with numbers or was measured over time. Use a bar graph if the changes of the independent variable are described by words. The title of the graph should have the form “The Effect of the (IV) on the (DV) of (object or system)”.

Example of the line graph for the airplane experiment:

The Effect of Added Mass on the

Average Flight Distance of a Paper Airplane

(DV and units)

Average

Flight Distance

of the Airplane

(m)

(IV and units)

Mass of Paper Clips

Added to the Airplane (grams)

Here is an example of how a bar graph would look for a different airplane experiment. Notice that the IV on the x-axis is described by words, not a numerical scale:

The Effect of Different Designs on the

Average Flight Distance of a Paper Airplane

(DV)

Average

Flight Distance

of the

Airplane

(m)

Type of Airplane (Design)

(IV)

Write the POWER Conclusion

The conclusion should include a statement summarizing what was being tested (“The purpose of the experiment was…”). A conclusion states the relationship between the IV and DV (“I found out…”). In addition, it must analyze whether the hypothesis is supported (“The data supported/ did not support my hypothesis…” and how it is supported/not supported by the data (“The data showed…”). The conclusion should also provide a scientific explanation about the results of the experiment (“I got my results because…”). Factors that could have affected the data (“Some possible flaws were…”) should also be discussed. Lastly, include ideas for future research (write a new testable question).

Project Analysis

  • States the overall purpose of the experiment
  • Explains the significance of the results of the experiment
  • Analyzes the overall project & scientific worth of the topic/findings
  • Suggests improvements/extensions to the topic studied

-What difficulties or problems did you have while doing the experiment?

-If you did this study again, what would you do differently next time?

-How did the background information that you gathered at the beginning of the experiment help you in making a prediction about the outcome?

  • Discusses the scientific worth of the project

-Make a real-world connection. Why is studying this topic important? Describe the potential impact that this topic may have on society or the environment.

-What other studies are being done on this topic?

-Beyond the results, explain what was learned throughout the experiment.

ExperimentalDesignProject

FINAL REPORT

The final report should be typed in size 12 font,double spaced,and written in third person. There should be a Title Page including the project title (Testable Question) and the name(s) of those who conducted the experiment. Also include a Table of Contents for the report.

The body of the report should include the following:

  • A Background paragraph

-Your Background paragraph should include information about the significance of your topic / why it is valuable or worth studying. History of people/findings AND/OR facts, terms/procedural information related to topic can be included to help explain significance of topic.

  • A written Experimental Set-up includes:

-Testable question

-Hypothesis

-Variables/Constant Conditions

-Materials List

-Procedure – numbered in steps, use action verbs (can be single-spaced)

  • Data Table
  • Graph
  • Conclusion/Project Analysis (For guidelines – see p.12 of packet)

Experimental Design Project - Scoring Guide

______

Logbook: A written record of ALL work done on the project. (48points)

  • Includes personal thoughts, observations, reflections made while conducting theexperiment (10 pts)
  • Experimental Design Diagram completed and turned in a timely manner (10 pts)
  • Background information included (5 pts)
  • Rough Drafts included

-Procedure (2 pts)

-Data table (2 pts)

-Graph (2 pts)

-Conclusion (2 pts)

  • Photos of progress throughout the project (5 pts)
  • Is a start-to-finish record of the experiment (10 pts)

______/48 pts

______

Final Report (5 points)

  • Table of contents included (1 pt)
  • Pages numbered and in proper order (1 pt)
  • Typed using proper spelling/grammar/etc. (3 pts)

______/ 5 pts

______

Experimental Design Set-up (18points)

  • BACKGROUND INFORMATION

- Explains significance of topic / provides relative background information(3 pts)

  • MATERIALS LIST

- Materials (including quantities) needed to conduct experiment are listed (2 pts)

  • PROCEDURE

- Step-by-step, numbered list of directions for conducting experiment (2pts)

  • TESTABLE QUESTION /PROBLEM STATEMENT

- Written in “What is the effect…?” format (1 pt)

- Relationship between the IV and DV clearly stated (1 pt)

  • HYPOTHESIS

- Written in “If…, then…” format (1 pt)

- Predicts the expected IV – DV relationship (1 pt)

- Is a directional prediction (1 pt)

  • VARIABLES

- Independent Variable (IV)

* Describes what is being changed in the experiment (1 pt)

* At least three variations of the IV are used in the experiment (1 pt)

- Dependent Variable (DV)

* Describes what is being measured in the experiment (1 pt)

* Metric units (or measurement scale) is included and used consistently throughout

the experiment (1 pts)

- Constant Conditions (CCs)

* Conditions are clearly stated and kept constant throughout the experiment (2 pts)

______/ 18pts

______

Results (24 points)

  • DATA TABLE

- IV is identified (2 pts)

- Levels of IV are listed (2 pts)

- DV is labeled (2 pts)

- Data is entered (2 pts)

- Multiple trials are indicated(2 pts)

-Averages of data are calculated (2 pts)

  • GRAPH

- Title indicates the IV/DV relationship (2 pts)

- X axis is labeled using the appropriate units (2 pts)

- Y axis is labeled using the appropriate units (if necessary) (2 pts)

- Consistent interval scales allowing all data to be plotted within the grid(2 pts)

- Data is plotted correctly (2 pts)

- Correct type (bar/line) to represent the results (2 pts)

______/ 24 pts

______

Conclusion/Project Analysis(30 points)

  • States the overall purpose of the experiment (2 pts)
  • Explains the significance of the results of the experiment

- Determines whether the hypothesis was supported/not supported by the data (2 pts)

- Uses specific examples from the data to explain the findings of the experiment (3 pts)

- Includes a scientific explanation of results (5 pts)

  • Reflects on possible flaws which could have affected the data (5 pts)
  • Includes a new testable question that could be investigated in the future (3 pts)
  • Analyzes the overall project & scientific worth of the topic/findings

- Suggests improvements/extensions to the topic studied (5 pts)

- Discusses the scientific worth of the project (5 pts)

______/ 30 pts

______

TOTAL POINTS ______/ 125 POINTS

1