Science.4.7

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The student is expected to plan and conduct descriptive investigations to explore the patterns of forces such as gravity, friction, or magnetism in contact or at a distance on an object.

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Knowledge and Skills Statement

Force, motion, and energy. The student knows the nature of forces and the patterns of their interactions. 

a type of investigation that involves simple observations to understand and explain a process or behavior

a push or pull between two objects

a force that opposes relative motion between systems in contact

a physical phenomenon where masses exert a pull on each other from a distance; the objects are pulled toward each other's center of mass

a type of physical phenomenon that includes the attraction between iron and a magnet; exhibited by both magnets and electric currents; a type of energy characterized by fields of force

Research

Bobrowsky, Matt. “Science 101 Q: What Makes a Great Science Investigation?” Science and Children 59, no. 5 (May/June 2022): 62–65. https://www.proquest.com/docview/2665176647?pq-origsite=gscholar&fromopenview=true&sourcetype=Scholarly%20Journals.

Summary: This article explains the importance of students conducting investigations and what steps teachers can take to help guide them. Students should start by exploring a new phenomenon with a hands-on activity to spark engagement and curiosity. These investigations help students gain scientific skills such as observing, collecting, and making predictions. This article lists open-ended questions teachers can ask that require deep thought from students. It is helpful for students to conduct investigations that help solve a problem. Students benefit from working in groups because they can discuss how to find a solution. Students should also consider what materials will work best to help their investigation. Students should test their product to see if it has solved the problem and make changes as needed.