Lesson 2: Designing the Inquiry
Duration of Days: 4
Lesson Objective
Students will design a controlled experiment to test a specific plant response stimulus
How do we prove a specific stimulus is causing a growth change? What factors must we keep constant?
Independent Variable, Dependent Variable, Controlled Variables (Constants), Hypothesis, Treatment Groups.
DCI: ETS1.B (Developing Possible Solutions); SEP: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations; CCC: Patterns
Analysis in Science: Identifying the independent and dependent variables within an experimental design.
(DOK 4) Students select a project topic (e.g., fruit ripening, phototropism, or gravitropism). They complete the "Yellow" procedure paper and "Blue" variables paper, defining exactly how they will measure the plant's response.
Poster Inquiry: Students develop the blueprint for their scientific poster by isolating one variable—such as light color or the presence of a "ripe fruit friend"—and controlling all others.
Difficulty distinguishing between the "Independent Variable" (the thing they change) and the "Dependent Variable" (the growth they measure).
Differentiation by Content:
Tiered Assignments: Create assignments with varying levels of difficulty to cater to students' abilities. For example, offer a basic level assignment, an intermediate level assignment, and an advanced level assignment.
Flexible Grouping: Group students based on their readiness levels or learning styles. This allows you to provide targeted instruction and support to different groups of students.
Choice Boards: Offer students a variety of activities to choose from, allowing them to select tasks that align with their interests and learning styles.
Differentiation by Process:
Scaffolded Instruction: Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps to support students who need additional guidance.
Graphic Organizers: Provide students with visual tools like Venn diagrams, concept maps, and timelines to help them organize information and make connections.
Technology Integration: Utilize technology tools like simulations, online resources, and educational apps to engage students and provide alternative learning pathways.
Differentiation by Product:
Multiple Assessment Options: Offer students a variety of ways to demonstrate their understanding, such as written reports, presentations, models, or digital projects.
Student Choice: Allow students to choose the format for their final projects, giving them ownership over their learning.
Rubrics: Develop clear and specific rubrics to provide students with expectations and guidelines for their work.
LP 4.2 Checkpoint (Quiz)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CTZmXZzAnolepFkb9dgYg-MscvA_T53m?usp=drive_link