WEEK 1
DAY 1
Topic: Scientific Skills and Investigations
1. Observation
An observation is information collected using our senses or measuring instruments.
Example
The water temperature is 35°C.
This is an observation because we measured the temperature.
2. Prediction
Prediction is what we think will happen.
Example
I predict that sugar will dissolve faster in warm water.
3. Variables
There are three important types.
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Independent Variable
The variable that we change.
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Dependent Variable
The variable that we measure.
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Controlled Variables
Things that we keep the same.
❑ Investigation Example
Q. Does water temperature affect how quickly sugar dissolves?
Independent Variable
The temperature of water (This is what we change).
Dependent Variable
Time taken for sugar to dissolve (This is what we measure).
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Controlled Variables
Amount of sugar
Amount of water
Type of sugar
Container
(These should stay the same).
Q. Why should we keep the other variables the same?
To make the investigation a fair test.
If we change several things at the same time, we cannot know which variable caused the result.
❑ Science Practice
Q. A student wants to investigate whether plants grow taller when they receive more water.
1. What is the independent variable?
The amount of water. (It is the factor the student changes)
2. What is the dependent variable?
The height or growth of the plant.
3. Name two controlled variables.
Amount of water
Type of plant
Other acceptable answers include temperature, soil type and amount of soil.
DAY 2
Topic: Measurement and Units
Key Units
Q. Which instrument is used to measure temperature?
Thermometer
Q. Which instrument is used to measure mass?
Balance
Q. Which instrument is used to measure time?
Stopwatch
Q. Why is "The water is hot" less useful than "The water is 60°C"?
"Hot" is subjective. Different people may have different ideas about what is hot.
60°C is a precise measurement that can be compared with other measurements.
Q. A student wants to measure 250 mL of water for an experiment.
A. Which instrument should the student use?
B. What is the unit used to measure this quantity?
Measuring cylinder, litre (L) or millilitre (mL)