Planning Investigations Sheet

The 'Planning Investigations Sheet' is a structured template designed for students to outline and conduct a scientific investigation. It begins with sections for the student's name and the lesson title, followed by a clear breakdown of the variables involved in the experiment. Students are asked to categorize variables into three types: Independent Variables, which are the conditions they will change; Dependent Variables, the conditions they will measure in response to changes; and Control Variables, the conditions they will keep constant throughout the experiment. Students must choose one Independent Variable and one Dependent Variable to investigate, marking their choices with an asterisk.

The sheet prompts students to formulate a research question based on the variables they have selected, encouraging them to consider the effects of the Independent Variable on the Dependent Variable. They are then asked to make a prediction about what they expect to happen, providing reasoning for their hypothesis. A comprehensive list of all the equipment needed for the practical experiment is to be compiled, ensuring students are well-prepared. The method section is where students write down the step-by-step process they will follow during the practical. A space is provided for drawing a results table with instructions to use a sharp pencil and ruler for precision. After conducting the experiment, students analyze their results, comparing them to their initial prediction. The sheet also encourages creative thinking by asking students to come up with alternative questions and predictions based on the initial set of variables. The worksheet concludes with a congratulatory note, reinforcing a sense of accomplishment.