Checkpoints 1-4

MDM4UI Mini Project

TASK: Investigate a unique topic with a partner and produce a poster displaying your results.

Stage 1: The hypothesis

1)  Select a topic of interest and spend half a period doing background research on this topic.

2)  Read the mind mapping examples on pages 77 and 78 of our text. Complete at least 2 mind maps for your topic of interest.

3)  Make a list of questions about this topic.

Following are a list of questions researched by students who have previously completed this assignment:

·  Does the amount of solid waste produced by a country increase as their population increases?

·  Does a child whose mother smokes have an increased risk of dying under the age of 5?

·  How does the number of adults with HIV affect a country’s literacy rate?

·  Does an increase in the number of police officers result in a decrease in the crime rate in Ontario?

·  Does the average attendance at games for a Pro Sports Team affect its winning percentage?

4)  Choose 2 or 3 of your questions and write a hypothesis to go with each question. Spend half a period and try to find data related to one of your hypotheses.

Example:

Question: Does the amount of solid waste produced by a country increase as their population increase?

Hypothesis: Large countries produce the most solid waste.

Stage 2: Analysis of data [20]

Collect and analyze data related to your hypothesis. Use at least 4 techniques you have already learned in the course that will help you prove whether your hypothesis is true or false. Interpret your stats. (1 period)

Stage 3: Prepare a report of your project in poster form. (1 period) [10]

Your report (poster) should include:

·  Title

·  Background information (brief)

·  Webbing and selected questions

·  Statement of hypothesis

·  Data: information on how the data was collected, possible sources of bias in the study

·  Data analysis: charts, graphs, diagrams, and statistics as appropriate to your question

·  Results and conclusions including a discussion of other related factors

·  Possibilities for further research

·  References (APA format)

Stage 4: Present your poster! (10 minutes) [10]