1. SOAR 2.0 Science ownership of accelerated research
Science Department Spring 2016
7th and 8th Grade Advanced Classes

2. Science Ownership of Accelerated Research Why do we S.O.A.R?
GOAL: To research, investigate, and communicate about scientific phenomena that exists within our universe.
Objectives:
Students will research scientific background information for a selected topic.
Students will communicate researched information for a selected topic to an audience.
Students will integrate technology in the creation of a project product.
Science
Ownership of
Accelerated
Research

3. DUE DATES FOR ALL OPTIONS
PARTS
DESCRIPTION
DUE DATES 1:
Proposal
January 20, 2017 2:
Project details
February 10, 2017 3
Background Research Technology Integration Portion
April 7, 2017 4:
Final Project
(Presentation components: board, technology file, optional model/product)
May 5, 2017
PRESENTATION NIGHT
8th grade
Thursday, May 17, 2017
5:30-7 pm
7th grade
Monday, May 15, 2016

4. Option 1: problem based approach
Student is solving a direct problem and forming a solution and alternative solutions.
Student presents problem and solution/alternative solutions.
A model or design/blueprint is a great product for this approach if the problem is solved with an apparatus.
Example: In a world where humans are affected by genetic diseases, how can symptoms of a patient be used to identify possible genetic diseases?

5. Option 2: information/expository approach
Student explains and describes a topic.
Student focuses on the HOW and WHY of a natural phenomenon or scientific theory, idea, or event.
Student is not solving a problem.
A model is a great product for this approach.
Example: Fundamentals of Black Holes or Microorganisms

6. Option 3: service learning approach
Student identifies a problematic need within the community.
Student relates identified need to a scientific concept.
Students presents problem and forms a solution.
The actual implementation of the service learning project does not have to be completed within the current school year.
Example: Establishing a campaign against littering in a local body of water

7. Option 4: scientific method approach
Student investigation is driven by a problem and/or a question.
Student seeks to solve the problem and/or answer the question through the collection of evidence (data).
Student produces Science Fair type project following the Scientific Method.
The product of the project includes data collection and a formal lab report.
Data must be quantitative and must be based on 5-10 trials.

8. HELPFUL VIDEOS RELATED TO PROJECT BASED LEARNING