Big Idea Science

Students need to sort short experiment scenarios as either describing the independent or dependent variable. The activity is best done in groups of 2. Each student is given 4 scenarios and then they need to check their partner's work too. By working together they practice identifying variables and show knowledge more than knowing the definition of these words. Teacher prep: cut the scenarios into slips and place into envelope to give to each group. Print off t-chart or have students make their

PowerPoint that could be used in a word wall, bellwork, foldable or graphic organizer that relate the nature of science vocabulary words: prediction, inquiry, scientific method, metric system, replicate, trials, flaw, and validity.

The worksheet goes along with a CPALMS tutorial on the differences between independent and dependent variables. The tutorial is fantastic, BUT students can just click through to the end without reading the content; thus I created this worksheet to have accountability for the material in the tutorial. The site says it is for 7th grade, but it could be used at 6th or 8th grade levels. I did not create the tutorial resource website. This resource is free, as is the content on CPALMS.

9 key vocabulary terms that relate to the concept of experiments (nature of science). problem, hypothesis, procedure, independent variable, dependent variable, controlled experiment, results, constant, control group This PowerPoint could be used for bellwork, vocabulary foldables or graphic organizers.

This is a 5 question practice of how to identify the independent variable in a scientific question, plus students also need to match the correct hypothesis to the problem.