The Science and Technology
Center
At
Oxon Hill High School
Research
Practicum
Curriculum
Guide
This document is a guide. The teacher has the right to revise/change the guide as long as
adequate notice is given in writing.
THIS ENTIRE DOCUMENT CAN BE FOUND AT
(http://www.pgcps.org/~oxonhill/scienceandtech.htm)
Table of Contents
A.
Timeline…………………………………………………………….………3
B.
Grading Factors………………………………………………………….…3
C.
Summer Assignment……………………………………………………….4
D.
Definitions and Descriptions…………………………...…………….……8
E.
Typing Instructions……………………………………………………….12
F.
Chapter Specifications……………………………………………………13
G.
Chapter Rubrics………………………………………..…………………18
H.
Final Paper Information…………………………………………………..23
I.
Writing an abstract……………………………………………………….26
J.
Symposium……………………………………………………………….27
K.
Progress Check……………………………………………………………29
2
Research Practicum Timeline
Quarter 1
a.
Summer Assignment
--Finalize mentors and projects the first two weeks of school
b.
Chapter 1 (rough draft)
Quarter 2
a.
Outline of Chapter 2
b.
Chapter 2 (3-5 page section with references and proper citations)
c.
Science Fair forms
--All students must do form 1, 1A, 1B, and Research Plan Attachment. Some projects
may need additional forms. All forms can be found at http://www.sciserv.org.
d.
Chapter 2 (rough draft)
Quarter 3
a.
Chapter 3 (rough draft)
b.
Science Fair backboards and presentations in class
c.
Chapter 4 (rough draft)
Quarter 4
a.
Chapter 5 (rough draft)
b.
Final paper
c.
Poster
d.
Research Symposium
***All assignments are due on the dates given; there are NO EXCEPTIONS.
Grading Factors
Quarter 1
Chapter Assignments
Statistics/Class work
Progress Checks
Summer Assignment
Quarter 3
Chapter Assignments
Statistics/Class work
Progress Checks
Science Fair
40%
20%
20%
20%
Quarter 2
Chapter Assignments
Statistics/Class work
Progress Checks
Science Fair Forms
40%
20%
20%
20%
40%
20%
20%
20%
Quarter 4
Chapter Assignments
Statistics/Class work
Progress Checks
Poster/Symposium
40%
20%
20%
20%
3
Summer Assignment
Research Practicum
Each research practicum student will report to class in the fall with the following five items, which will constitute
20% of the first quarter grade. No “Team” Projects! The SA will be collected on the first day of class! Do not
arrive empty handed!
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Mentor Contact/Email address
Project Proposal #1
Project Proposal #2
Project Proposal #3
Evidence of Research
(info, log, letter, email)
(1-2 pages)
(1-2 pages)
(1-2 pages)
(15 references, ref. total 5-10 pages)
20 pts.
20 pts.
20 pts.
20 pts.
20 pts.
All work in RP will be typed and submitted in font Times 12. All graphs, illustrations, and spreadsheets will be
integrated into the word processor document. Students should also keep a personal copy and at least two copies on
disk. Ideally an RP student begins work on a high quality project over the summer and refines it during the senior
year. Students placed in a laboratory may be permitted to work in the lab regularly during school hours if their class
schedule permits.
1.
Mentor contact/Email Address
Each RP student must have a mentor and an email address. The mentor is a professional outside of Oxon Hill High
School and student’s family. During the summer you must contact a scientist, technician, mathematician, or
engineer, in government, business, or university. This does not mean that work cannot be done at school or home; it
means you must seek support outside the school. Also, you must have an email address where you can be contacted.
See note below.
A. Name, title, organization, mailing address, phone number, and mentor’s e-mail address.
B. Log of contacts (time/date/results of phone, mail, fax, email contacts)
C. Copy of letter to mentor (this may be a letter of introduction, request for assistance, or thank you letter for
support already received)
D. Your email address for school purpose next year
2. Proposed project #1: (this is the one you really want to do!)
A. Proposed title of project
B. Hypothesis to be tested
C. Very brief procedures including materials, apparatus, data to be collected.
3. Proposed project #2: (a “backup” project if the first cannot be done)
D. Proposed title of project
E. Hypothesis to be tested
F. Very brief procedures including materials, apparatus, data to be collected.
4. Proposed project #3: (additional “backup” project)
G. Proposed title of project
H. Hypothesis to be tested
I. Very brief procedures including materials, apparatus, data to be collected.
5. References: (fifteen reference citations/summaries, typed: about ½ page each, five per
each of three proposed projects)
Each student will submit (in your own words!) summaries of fifteen references. Store these references on disk so
that they may be used directly in the writing of your paper, and in your annotated bibliography, due during first
quarter. Unedited printouts of summaries from library, internet or CDROM will NOT be accepted as your work.
References must be from professional journals or organizational websites such as CDC or NIH.
References can include some very general sources of information for the academic field of your project, and more
specific references that deal with the procedures and individual features and techniques of your project.
NOTE: Each student will maintain an e- mail address (this can be a free account, such as Hotmail.com or
Yahoo.com, or an account your family already has) used to communicate with the RP teacher and mentor.
4
Think carefully about the image you put forth if you use a humorous, “sexy,” or flippant email address: you will not
be taken seriously by potential professional mentors!
NOTE: Some members of previous classes did not graduate tech. Do not let this happen to you! If you are
having ANY difficulty, particularly in mathematics, you should review this summer, and seek tutoring in the fall at
the first opportunity. Please be very serious about your summer assignment, and call the Science and Tech
Office….301- 749- 4328) with any questions you have! I’ll be glad to help, all summer long.
During the month of school each 2006 RP student will meet with a current RP teacher to discuss the summer
assignment, before or after school, lunch duty, and first period (after Seniors leave):
Mr. Mrad
Mr. Witko
Ms. Weaver
Mr. Miles
Some of the best projects are “interdisciplinary” (e.g.: bio- engineering, integrated pest management, computer
applications in the life or social science, use of GIS in environmental science, photography in astronomy, etc.) you
should leave Oxon Hill for the summer with an idea for an RP project and a plan for contacting a mentor. If you are
working or volunteering in a lab this summer you should do your best to incorporate your summer work into your
project. You may NOT use humans unless you have an M.D. or Ph.D. in the particular field as your mentor.
Good sources for mentors:
 Local universities, college, and community colleges
 Local hospital, physicians
 Veterinary clinics
 Local museums/parks… Smithsonian, National Zoo, National Aquarium
 Federal government labs...NRL, ARL, USDA, NIH, NPS, EPA, OSHA, Bureau of Standards, FBI, NOAA,
NASA, NSWC
 Local agencies…MNCPPC, Humane Society, WSSC, PGCPD
 OHHS alumni in graduate school
 Local businesses and business associations
 Professional associations/Scientific Societies…IEEE, Audubon Society, Sierra Club, Archaeological
Society of Maryland, Mac Users Group, Apple Pi
Some ways to find a project:
 Modify/Extend/Improve/Challenge a simple project you or someone else has done in the past
 Combine two or three simple projects into a multidisciplinary project
 Focus on a single sub problem of a project done by professionals at a university or research lab
Some ways to find a mentor:
 Direct phone contact (have an idea of your project BEFORE you call….but be willing to modify it to suit
the prospective mentor if receptive!)
 Letter of introduction (be as specific as possible in your request; same advice as above)
 Internet search…DO NOT give out your personal information to a person contacted over the
internet…have a current RP teacher or the Science and Tech coordinator check out any respondents for
appropriateness
 Colleague of someone else’s mentor
 Contacts at a summer internship
 Colleague of relative/neighbor/family friend (family/friends SHOULD NOT be mentors, but they can often
help to find a colleague at work who makes an ideal mentor)
 Referral from a current RP teacher
5
Research Requirement
Each Science and Technology Program (STP) senior is required to design, execute and present
the results of an individual research project. This senior research project is officially called a
Research Practicum (RP) Project. (Note: Although the following information serves a general
guideline for all RP Projects, these guidelines are designed with the flexibility to address
individual RP Projects that vary in scope and dimension.)
Background:
Research Practicum, or “RP”, is a yearlong research, experimentation, writing, and presentation
course required of all seniors in the Science and Technology Program. Each student develops a
research project and produces a paper presenting the research, procedures, findings, and
conclusions. Projects involve several aspects: experimental design, review of professional
literature, experimental procedures, statistical presentation of data, and conclusions and
recommendations. Each of these is presented in a separate “chapter” of the formal research
paper. Each RP student enters his/her project in the Oxon Hill High School Science and
Engineering Fair. Winning projects go on to compete in the Prince George’s Area Science and
Engineering Fair at Prince George’s Community College. The Grand Prize Winners at the
Regional Fair go on to compete at the International Science and Engineering Fair.
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
The Problem and its Setting
Background/Review of Literature
The Research Methodology
The Findings
Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations
Formal Presentation:
All RP students present their findings in a power-point presentation and a poster. A group of
students is selected to formally present their research in symposium format before an assembly
of Research Practicum seniors, 2 current Science and Technology Program juniors, and invited
guests.
Additionally audio-visual aides are developed for this presentation. Current STP juniors
interview each Research Practicum student in a “poster session”. Award wining project
blackboards are displayed while other researchers produce posters to explain their research
projects.
Research Project
Each RP student is required to select a research topic. Develop and execute a research project
and produce a formal paper to present their research, procedures, findings, and
conclusions. Projects involve several constructive literary aspects: experimental design, review
of the professional literature, experimental procedures, statistical presentation of data,
6
conclusions and recommendations. Each of these is presented in a separate “chapter” of the
formal research paper. Outcomes for this course are comprised of two components:
(1) Development and execution of an in-depth research proposal designed to test a studentselected hypothesis or problem; and
(2) Reports of research finding via a formal research paper, electronic format (i.e. “power
point) and an academic poster. Students conduct research in one of the general areas of
Engineering Technology, Physical Science, Computer Science or Natural Sciences.
Research Mentor/Advisor
All RP students are required to establish a formal student-professional relationship with a
mentor/advisor in academia, business or civil service. These scientist, engineers, teachers,
technicians and/or mathematicians provide guidance, expertise, and facilities in OHHS Science
and Engineering Laboratories.
Mentor: Students who have been officially accepted into the RP Internship Program must
establish a formal mentor relationship with a professional in academia, business, or civil
service. These scientists, engineers, technicians, and mathematicians provide guidance and
facilities unavailable at the high school.
Advisors: Students conducting in-school research are under the guidance of a “teacher
advisor”. The “teacher advisor” in most cases is the student’s RP teacher.
7
RP Definitions and Descriptions
Research Practicum Teacher
The Research Practicum (RP) Teacher is an OHHS teacher to whom the RP student is
assigned. The RP classroom teacher guides the student through the RP research process.
The RP Teacher directs and supervises the time management and quality control of the RP
student’s research. The RP teacher steers and follows a student’s RP project and its
presentation from start to finish. This involves a variety of activities focused on individual
students. This teaching strategy is an alternative to the collective and more traditional
classroom delivery method of instruction. The teacher is no longer instructing 25 students on
the same topic, but they guide 25 individual students with different projects and challenges
toward an outcome of a successful RP Research Project. Teacher’s grading rubric is based
on periodic evaluations of the project’s expected time-line progress and quality different
research and academic needs.
The RP teacher establishes and monitors criteria and time-line milestones for the RP
projects in general. The teacher’s attention to individual student needs traverses a variety of
areas. These areas include:
Interviewing each student to establish research area topic.
Assisting each student to develop project related professional contact
networks.
Communicating with student Research Mentors and/or Research Advisors.
Reading and correcting RP project chapter drafts and a final paper.
Assisting each student with the oral presentation and poster display.
Research Practicum:
Research Practicum (RP) is a year-long research course required of all Science and
Technology Program (STP) seniors. RP experiences and instruction pertain to the design,
execution, interpretation, and presentation of a highly technical research project.
Independent Research project (IRP)
The Independent Research Project is designed, executed and reported by an individual RP
student. Approved Independent Research Projects are primarily conducted on campus in the
assigned RP class. A student may enlist a number of “Research Advisors” as content and
style resources.
Dependent Research Project (DRP)
The Dependent Research Project is a project conducted by a student who leaves the school
during the day to work in collaboration with a scientist, engineer, and/or technician, who are
known as the Research Mentor (RM). Approved Dependent Research Projects are conducted
off campus at recognized institutions of Higher Learning or in facilities located in the
business/industry community.
Research Mentor (RM)
The Research Mentor is a practicing scientist, mathematician and/or engineer who is
currently performing quantitative research in fields related to Mathematics, Science and
8
Engineering. The Research Mentor enlists the RP students 32-3 times a week as a Research
Intern to assist his/her current research project.
Research Internship (RI)
Students may assist a scientist or engineer (a Research Mentor) with part of a research
project. Formal application and approval is first required for an intern to leave the OHHS
campus. Students may avail themselves up to two afternoon or morning classroom periods to
participate in an off campus internship. Students may assist a scientist or engineer (mentor)
with part of a research project. This cooperative yet individual research conducted by the
student may satisfy Research Practicum course requirements. Mentor identification/selection
and off-campus transportation is the responsibility of the student. The Science and
Technology Office can assist with mentor identification and transportation arrangements
where possible. The individual research conducted by the student may satisfy Research
Practicum course requirements.
Research Advisor (RA)
The Research Advisor is a qualified professional practicing in the applied fields of science,
mathematics and engineering as well as other professionals working in fields related to the
student’s project. The Research Advisor assists RP students with the practical applications of
the Independent Research Project. The Research Advisor is not engaged in conducting
research but is willing to advise the student on their project. Research design, statistics,
writing style and proofing are among the areas a Research Advisor may be solicited.
Research Proposal:
Definition: A research proposal sets forth both the exact nature of the matter to be
investigated and a detailed account of the methods to be employed. In addition, the
proposal usually contains material supporting the importance of the topic selected
and the inappropriateness for the research methods to be employed.
Function: The research proposal may function in at least three ways: as a means of
communication, as a plan, and as a contract.
Elements of a Research Proposal
Study Introduction:
Provide background information.
State the importance of the study.
Review related research publications (what others have done).
Set the question or hypothesis:
Provide a rationale for the study.
Present delimitations (describe the population to which generalization of the results might
be safely made.)
Present limitations (describe the factors that might limit the validity of the study).
Provide Definitions: (define all terms that are systemic language specified to the field of
research being proposed.)
9
Explain Procedures:
Identify and describe target population and sampling methods to be used.
Present instruments and techniques for measurement.
Present a design for the collection of data.
Present procedures for collecting and recording data.
Develop a backup plan for contingencies (research mentor moves, lab animals die).
Formulate a time line of completion for each chapter of completion.
Research Abstract:
The research abstract is a compact narrative that answers the adverb question of “who, what,
where, when, and how”. A research abstract is a succinct summary of the RP project. It should
be clear enough to convey its purpose without requiring one to read the full text. Abstracts
should include the following: a statement of the research problem, procedures, methods,
statistics used, results, and the conclusions.
Research Design: Formal research is designed (set-up) so that information may be collected in
the form of numerical data. The RP Project must follow
either the format for “Experimental Design” or a “Design and Developmental Design. Projects
in the Natural Sciences must use the experimental design. Engineering and Computer
Science projects may use either the experimental design or a design and development design.
“Experimental Design” must:
Contain a dependent and independent variable, must be part of the design
(observational and/or theoretical studies are permitted only if the student researcher is
on an internship with an approved research mentor).
Includes a hypothesis, which can be tested statistically.
Focus involves the controlled manipulation, the independent variable, and then
measuring the effect on the dependent variable.
Include a statistical analysis of data.
o
Select a statistical test for significance.
o
Statistically analyze data for correlation between the independent and
dependent variables (This means that you will determine if a plot of the
independent variable vs. the dependent variable yields a linear relationship).
10
“Design and Development” Design must:
Addresses a problem that requires an engineering solution.
o
Refine of a current solution.
o
Development of a new solution.
o
Analyze possible solutions
Include a statistical analysis of data for significance
Statistically analyze data for correlation between the independent and dependent
variables (Does a plot of the independent variable vs. the dependent variable yield a
linear relationship?).
11
Research Practicum Paper: Typing Instructions
The body of the Research Practicum paper will be double spaced. Font “Times” size “12” (or
equivalent) will be used throughout.
Text margins will be one inch all around. Text will be left justified only. Beginning of each
paragraph will indented ½ inch. No additional spaces will be added between paragraphs.
Pages will be numbered automatically, center at bottom. No hand numbered pages will be
acceptable. No pages may be inserted—all tables, graphs, and illustrations should be
electronically stored and printed as part of the paper. No tables, illustrations, or graphs will be
“Xeroxed” in.
The OHHS sample paper will be used as a guide. Reference citations will be of the “author,
date” type and a reference list will follow the entire paper. References will be unnumbered, and
alphabetized by author’s last name. As the paper grows, the reference list will be modified.
“Ibid.” will not be used.
Two Levels of headings will be used. Each chapter will begin with a centered heading:
Don’t use the words
“Chapter One” as part
of a title or heading . Use heading
provided:
The Problem and its Setting
Background/ Review of the Related Literature
The Research Methodology
The Findings
Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations
Within a chapter, sections required by the specifications will be underlined at left:
Introduction:
This is an example of how a paragraph might begin. Above it is a
heading Indicating that this section of the paper is introductory. Section
headings are providing in the specifications.
Footnotes are strongly discouraged. Any material worth mentioning should be in the body of the
body.
A sample title page and a guide to the organization of the entire paper will be attached.
12
Research Practicum Specifications
Chapter One: The Problem and its Setting
Introduction:
Describe the overall topic from general to specific, and show where your study fits in.
Purpose:
Discuss both the purpose and the importance of this study. Show why there is a need for this
research.
Hypothesis:
This is a formal statement of the question to be investigated. It should embody a cause and effect
relationship which can be statistically accepted or rejected. In the case of a design and
development projects it is a statement of what will statistically constitute of the project.
Sub problems:
Divide your project into easily accomplished, somewhat independent components. Each may be
described and discussed separately.
Limitations:
List the parameters of the study. The limitations are twofold:
(1) The experimental limitations are the experimental test groups and conditions to which the
project will be confined. List the subjects and tests and describe the testing conditions.
(2) The limitations for the findings are the groups to which your results apply.
Definition and terms and abbreviations:
Throughout your paper you should define terms as they are first encountered. A term must be
defined for use in your paper when it can be interpreted in more than one way. Abbreviations
specific to your filed should appear in full the first time and be abbreviated subsequently. A
collections of important and terms and abbreviations should be summarized here.
Closure:
Each Research Practicum chapter ends with a closure section. This is a review of what has been
stated in the chapter and sums up the status of the project at that point. The closure section pulls
together the fragmented components into a whole and provides a point of departure for the
following chapter.
FYI: Chapter One should be three to five pages (double spaced).
The section headings used in this specification sheet should be used
in your chapter. This will help the reader follow your writing, and
help you follow the specifications.
13
Research Practicum Specifications
Chapter Two: Background Review of the Literature
Introduction:
Put your study in the context of the overall field you are investigating. Delineate the scope of the
overall field of study and then of your particular project within the larger discipline.
Background:
This is the main body of your Chapter 2. In it you will provide the reader with necessary
background information relating to your project. This section will educate the reader in your
specially from general to specific. It will describe the principles, theories, practices, and modern
techniques which much be mastered to understand your project.
Early: It should proceed from early studies to recent advances. Only a very brief
description of the history of your field and the early pioneers in appropriate.
Recent: The balance of your writing should focus on more recent findings which bear on
your research. If your research uncovers differing points of view, provide background
information on each.
Current: Your Chapter 2 will conclude with a description of the most recent advances and
should summarize the commonly held beliefs of currently publishing researchers.
As you proofread your Chapter, ask yourself “Does this provide the background knowledge
necessary to understand my project?” and “Am I identifying the author and source of each place
of information I include?”
Closure:
Show how your project will continue the research of others described in the chapter. Discuss
how the results of your hypothesis testing will add to the body of knowledge just presented.
Each piece of information you use write this chapter must be attributed to the source from
which you obtained it. These references citations will follow the OHHS format. A variety of
sources is required. In the body of your text, references are “cited” by placing a superscript1 after
each citation. Later, following your paper, all of the reference will be listed numerically see
sample paper. This list will eventually include references cited in all five chapters.
You are expected to cite a minimum of 15 different appropriate references in Chapter 2.
The length of Chapter 2 should be from 7 to 10 pages.
14
Research Practicum Specifications
Chapter Three: The Research Methodology
Introduction:
Describe the research methodology to be used and your reason for this selection. Some
examples are: classic experiment with variables and controls, calibration/quality control,
feasibility study, design/development/testing, correlation study, and ANOVA (analysis of
variance).
Instrumentation and variables:
Describe the instruments used to gather your data. Describe your manipulated (independent)
variables and the resultant (dependent) variables if appropriate. Describe the units in which
variables will be measured. The “instruments” may be any devices used to gather data; this
includes traditional scientific apparatus as well as examinations, surveys, questionnaires, polls,
and rating scales.
Experimental Procedures:
 Detail the steps of your procedures. Steps should be clear enough for another researcher
to follow.
 Include schematic of procedures if appropriate (similar to computer flowchart).
 Include illustration of instrumentation/set-up if appropriate.
 Include samples of any tests, questionnaires, polls, rating scales, etc.
 Give specifics about any chemicals, reagents, or products used in your procedures.
Statistical Procedures:
 Show the form in which you will gather your data and it will be organized. This should
be in the form of a spreadsheet inserted into the text of your paper.
 Describe statistical methods to be used. For most experiments minimal statistical
treatment will include mean, median, mode, range, max, min, and standard deviation for
each set of data.
 Display a sample graph using “test data” if results are not available
 Propose the statistical test(s) you will use to test your hypothesis or measure success.
The Assumptions:
 Describe those experimental conditions assumed to be of negligible effect, and those
considered to mutually cancel.
 Describe the rationale for assuming that a measured value actually reflects an
experimental result (e.g. “It is assumed that lowered red/blue wavelength light
transmission readings indicate a higher green algae concentration in the water sample.”
Or “It is assumed that higher oil consumption indicates a failure in piston rings or valve
guide seals”)
Closure:
Briefly review the important points of the chapter and describe the current status of the project.
FYI: Chapter Three should be five to seven pages (doubled spaced).The section
headings used in this specification sheet MUST be used in your chapter
15
Research Practicum Specifications
Chapter Four: The Findings
Introduction:
Briefly describe the nature and scope of the data and observations you made. Describe in
paragraph form the types of data you collected and give the parameters (number of
measurements, range, time line over which the data was collected, etc.) Mention any problems
with the data or departures from the procedures and discuss the steps you took to ensure that the
data collected was still meaningful.
Findings: (Raw Data):
Each sub problem or type of data must be presented three ways:



First, describe the data giving sample size, mean, median ,mode, range, and standard
deviation(if appropriate)
Second, show the data in tabular form (spreadsheet).
Third, present an appropriate graph of your data.
The table and graphs should be integrated into the text of your document, NOT inserted into your
paper after the fact. Use appropriate labels and call attention to anomalies visible in the display
of your data.
Interpretation and Discussion:
Using statistical techniques describe the data in terms of confidence. Use the statistics tests from
your text to evaluate the data. Will there be enough data to draw a conclusion? Do not deal with
the hypothesis until the next chapter, but address the question of reliability of your data from a
statistical standpoint.
Closure:
Provide a summary of the data and its statistical evaluation up to this point. The findings
(Chapter 4) serve as a bridge between the procedures (Chapter 3) and the conclusions and
recommendations (Chapter 5). Discuss how any unexpected features in the data will be dealt
with, and what procedures will be taken to minimize their impact.
Note: In case of experimentation which is ongoing and for which complete data is not
available at the Chapter 4 due date, simply reserve space in your spreadsheets for the data,
and perform the statistical operations as if the data were complete. When final data
becomes available, insert the new values and have the computer recalculate the
descriptive statistics. Adjust the text of your chapter and the graphs as necessary.
Regardless, you must have three elements of the findings: (1) Description, (2) Table and
(3) Graph for each set of data.
16
Research Practicum Specifications
Chapter Five: Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations
Introduction:
Summarize and discuss the material from each of the four preceding chapters. (Do not say
“Chapter One was about…etc.”) The objective of the introduction is to allow the reader to
comprehend the entire study without rereading the previous chapters. This introduction will be a
miniature version of 1) the problem; 2) review of literature, 3) procedures, 4) findings (may
include tables and graphs.
Conclusions:
Based on your hypotheses: implications of your findings. Restate each hypothesis and discuss
whether the facts (data) support or refute that hypothesis. Use statistical techniques to accept or
reject your hypothesis and relate those inferential statistics to the descriptive statistics presented
in Chapter Four. Support or rejection of the hypothesis should be a statistical matter, not a matter
of opinion or belief.
Discuss the weaknesses or inconsistencies in your data and how they affect the strength of our
conclusions.
Discuss any unexpected findings which are unrelated to your hypothesis but of interest. Analyze
any new effects, phenomena, or relationships found in your data.
Recommendations:
Practical suggestions for implementation of the findings and additional research. Discuss steps
which might be taken to resolve difficulties in your project or weaknesses in your data. Discuss
to eliminate any problems.
Chapter 5 should be three to five pages. Following Chapter 5 will be the reference page which numbers
references for the entire paper.
17
RESEARCH PRACTICUM--CHAPTER ONE RUBRIC
THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING
CRITERIA
POINTS
BREAKDOWN
CRITERIA
10
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimally correct
6 – partially correct
8 – mostly correct
10 – all correctly used
Introduction to the Problem
 Links to Big Picture
 Provides Rationale for study
 Purpose: what is to be done
 Need: why it needs to be
done
 Value and contribution of
the study
Hypothesis
10
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive
explanation
Variables and Limitations
10
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive
explanation
Format






Font “Times” 12 pt.
“The Problem and its Setting”
1”margin on each side
Page numbers centered at the
bottom
Subheading capitalized and
underlined
Text double spaced, present/future
tense
.
Purpose



Discusses Big Picture
Concise, clear, and explicit
Informs reader of scope and
magnitude of study
.
Sub problems


Listed individually
Described clearly and completely
.
Definitions of Terms and Abbreviations



Alphabetical Order
Indent where necessary
Completed list
.
10









0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive
explanation
Clear
More than one if applicable
Sub-hypothesis if applicable
If-then format
Variables and Controls – 10
points
Size of Group
Variety/ Type of Subjects
Number of times Repeated
Limitations – 10 points
POINTS
.
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive explanation
.
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive explanation
.
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive explanation
10
10
10
.
10
.
10
Closure
 Proper review of all sections
.
10
LATE PENALTY (10% PER DAY) _________________ TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS
Comments:
18
BREAKDOWN
/ 100
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive explanation
RESEARCH PRACTICUM: CHAPTER TWO RUBRIC
BACKGROUND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
CRITERIA
POINTS
Format







Title 2” from top of page
Title Correct
1”margin on each side
Page numbers on the bottom
centered
7-10 pages
Subheading capitalized and
underlined
Text double spaced, past tense
.
10
Introduction


Brief introduction to the chapter.
Relay the importance or relevance
of the research
Closure
 Brief summary to chapter
 Relates subheadings to the problem
.
10
.
10
BREAKDOWN
CRITERIA
References
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimally correct
6 – partially correct
8 – mostly correct
10 – all correctly used





At least fifteen references
No more than three “.org”
Each reference a reputable
source, current, & appropriate
Citation for each reference
Citation correct
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive explanation
Other Subheadings
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive explanation
Citations






LATE PENALTY (10% PER DAY) _________________
TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS
POINTS
/ 100
Comments:
19
Sections organized Early, Recent,
Current
Information complete & related
to the problem
Spelling, punctuation, and
grammar correct
Citation for each reference
Citation format correct
Citation appropriate & related to
the problem
.
15
BREAKDOWN
0 – absent
3 – mentioned
6 – minimal explanation
9 – moderate explanation
12 – detailed explanation
15 – extensive explanation
35
0 – absent
7 – mentioned
14 – minimal explanation
21 – moderate explanation
28 – detailed explanation
35 – extensive explanation
20
0 – absent
4 – mentioned
8 – minimal explanation
12 – moderate explanation
16 – detailed explanation
20 – extensive explanation
.
.
RESEARCH PRACTICUM-CHAPTER 3 RUBRIC
THE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
CRITERIA
POINTS
Format







Title 2” from top of page
“The Research Methodology”
Used, Title Correct
1”margin on each side
Page numbers center, bottom
Subheading capitalized and
underlined
Text double spaced, past tense
No 1st or 2nd person
.
10
Instrumentation and Variables







All materials appear to be listed &
numbered.
Manufacture information provided
Instrumentation information
complete (make, model etc)
Study site listed & described
Variables and Controls
Size of Group/Variety/ Type of
Subjects
Number of times Repeated
.
30
Statistical Analysis



Null Hypothesis
Level of Significance
Identifies Statistical Test
.
10
BREAKDOWN
CRITERIA
Introduction and Closure
 Research methodology
 Type of study (examples classic
experiment, correlation study,
ANOVA)
 Brief review for closure
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimally correct
6 – partially correct
8 – mostly correct
10 – all correctly used
0 – absent
6 – mentioned
12 – minimal explanation
18 – moderate explanation
24 – detailed explanation
30 – extensive explanation
Methods/Procedures
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive explanation
Assumptions





LATE PENALTY (10% PER DAY) _________________
TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS
/ 100
Comments:
20
Is preliminary study necessary?
Procedure complete (Could you
repeat experiment exactly?)
Any deviations from procedures
and justification provided?
Answers: “What should the
researcher believe is true?”
Numbered lists
POINTS
.
10
BREAKDOWN
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimally correct
6 – partially correct
8 – mostly correct
10 – all correctly used
30
0 – absent
6 – mentioned
12 – minimal explanation
18 – moderate explanation
24 – detailed explanation
30 – extensive explanation
10
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimal explanation
6 – moderate explanation
8 – detailed explanation
10 – extensive explanation
.
.
RESEARCH PRACTICUM-CHAPTER 4 RUBRIC
THE FINDINGS
CRITERIA
POINTS
Format






Title 2” from top of page
Title Correct “The Findings”
1”margin on each side
Page numbers centered at the
bottom
Subheading capitalized and
underlined
Text double spaced, past tense, no
1st or 2nd person
.
10





Appropriate Null & Alternative
hypothesis
Following included:
Name of statistical test
Test statistic
Number of samples
Conclusions based on statistics
CRITERIA





.
30
POINTS
Findings (Raw Data)
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimally correct
6 – partially correct
8 – mostly correct
10 – all correctly used

Interpretation and Discussion

BREAKDOWN
0 – absent
6 – mentioned
12 – minimal explanation
18 – moderate explanation
24 – detailed explanation
30 – extensive explanation
LATE PENALTY (10% PER DAY) _________________
TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS_____________________ / 100
Comments:
21
Only summarized data in
tables
Data compete & easy to read.
Descriptive statistics included
Appropriate figures of
summary data
Written explanation for each
table and figure
Written explanation thorough
and easy to understand.
.
0 – absent
6 – mentioned
12 – minimal explanation
18 – moderate explanation
24 – detailed explanation
30 – extensive explanation
.
0 – absent
6 – mentioned
12 – minimal explanation
18 – moderate explanation
24 – detailed explanation
30 – extensive explanation
30
Tables and Figures





Data summarized in tables
Data complete & easy to read
Appropriate Figures
Figures easy to interpret
Tables and Figures labeled
properly/
30
BREAKDOWN
RESEARCH PRACTICUM-CHAPTER 5 RUBRIC
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
CRITERIA
POINTS
Format








Title 2” from top of page
Title Correct “Summary,
Conclusions and
Recommendations”
1”margin on each side
Page numbers in center at
bottom
Subheading capitalized and
underlined
Text double spaced, past tense
No 1st or 2nd person
Three to five pages
.
10
Conclusions







Are the following included:
What was learned
State hypothesis
Facts support or refute the
hypothesis
Why or how do the facts support
or refute
References to tables & figures
Was or is this important? Why?
.
40
BREAKDOWN
CRITERIA
0 – absent
2 – mentioned
4 – minimally correct
6 – partially correct
8 – mostly correct
10 – all correctly used
0 – absent
8 – mentioned
16 – minimal
explanation
24 – moderate
explanation
32 – detailed
explanation
40 – extensive
explanation
LATE PENALTY (10% PER DAY) _________________
TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS_____________________ / 100
Comments:
22
POINTS
Introduction


Are the following included:
(Each is a brief version of each
chapter)
 Importance of study
 Purpose
 Null & Alternative Hypothesis
 Brief review of literature
 Brief description of
experimental design
 Data collection methods
 Statistics used
 Findings
Recommendations & Future Implications
 Appropriate Recommendation
included
 Recommendations thorough
(discuss steps to resolve weak
data, etc)
 Appropriate implications
included, implications thorough
and well thought
 Refer to additional research
.
0 – absent
6 – mentioned
12 – minimal explanation
18 – moderate explanation
24 – detailed explanation
30 – extensive explanation
.
0 – absent
4 – mentioned
8 – minimal explanation
12 – moderate explanation
16 – detailed explanation
20 – extensive explanation
30
20
BREAKDOWN
Final Paper Checklist and Grading Rubric
Name____________________________________________________
Research Practicum Teacher__________________________________
This must be submitted with the final paper. You will not receive the paperback but only
a copy of the rubric, indicating you grade. Parents and a peer who reviewed work prior to
submission must sign it. This paper represents 20% of your 4th quarter grade! It is also a
program requirement for Science and Tech. Failure to complete and hand in can result in a
pulling of your Science and Tech certificate.
Peer
Parent RP Teacher






Title page (10 pts.)
Appropriately done according to format
____
____
_____
Acknowledgements(10 pts)
Appropriate and complete
____
____
_____
Abstract (10 pts)
Up to Date
____
____
____
Table of Contents(10 pts)
Done according to sample form
____
____
____
Format(20 pts)
Pagination
Past Tense;3rd person
Grammar
Font and Size
Correct Assembly and Order
Doubled Spaced
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
Chapter 1(20 pts)
Fully Revised
Introduction
Purpose
Hypothesis
Sub problems
Limitations
Terms (Updated)
Closure
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
23





Chapter 2 (20 pts)
Fully Revised
Introduction
Early
Recent
Current
Citations
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
Chapter 3 (20 pts)
Intro
Stat Procedures
Exp Procedures
Materials
Pictures and Diagrams(Integrated in text)
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
Chapter 4 (20 pts)
Intro
Findings(Raw Data)
Interpretation
Graphs and Tables(Integrated in text)
Statistics
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
Chapter 5 (20 pts)
Intro
Conclusion
Recommendations
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
References(20 pts)
“OHHS”Style
15 Minimum
Numbered (superscript)
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
___
Check Sheet Completed (20 points)
Parent Signature: _________________________________
Student Signature: ________________________________
Peer Reviewer: __________________________________
24
Title (bold)
Final Paper Presented to
(Teacher’s Name)
Oxon Hill High School
________________________
In Fulfillment of the
Requirements for
Research Practicum
_______________________
By: (Student’s Name)
Date
25
Writing an Abstract
Typing specifications: single-spaced, 12 point Times New Roman font.
Abstracts must not exceed one page and 250 words
The abstract should include:
a. purpose of the experiment
b. procedures used
c. data
d. conclusions
**Please limit yourself to describing research YOU have done in the current year.
An abstract should NOT include:
a. acknowledgments (includes naming the research institution and/or mentor with which
you were working)
b. work or procedures done by the mentor
26
SAMPLE
Research Practicum
Progress Check
Student Name:_________________________________________________________
Project Title:__________________________________________________________
RP Teacher:__________________________________________________________
Mentor Contact:
1.
Mentor Name:______________________________________
2.
e-mail address:______________________________________
3.
Have you contacted you mentor since August 23?__________
4.
When? (Date? Attach copy of e-mail)______________
Project:
What have you done with your project since the first week of school?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________
Student’s Signature:____________________________________________ _________________
Date
Parent’s Signature:_____________________________________________ _________________
Date
Mentor’s Signature:____________________________________________ _________________
Date
RP Teacher’s Signature:_________________________________________ ________________
27