2. Super Science Sleuth An exciting way to introduce your students to the scientific method! Nicole Satchell

3. Most teachers already know that… Many concepts (especially complex ones) are perceived to be boring by students Retention of knowledge is poor Everyone (including you) is frustrated

4. What is a teacher to do????

5. Create your lesson to be… Engaging Hands-on Student-centered Relevant to everyday life

6. Introducing… Super Science Sleuth! An exciting way to introduce your students to the scientific method which will ensure (hopefully) knowledge mastery!

7. The “Problem-Based Learning” Model will be used to introduce the lesson. This model enables the students to: “Learn to learn” “Work cooperatively in groups” “Seek solutions to real world problems” “Find and use appropriate learning resources” http://www.udel.edu/pbl/ Quotes above from Barbara Duch

8. Sweet and Sour Students will work cooperatively to “solve” the iced tea mystery Groups will design an experiment and be assessed by their peers and the teacher

9. Next, the students will view a “Super Science Sleuth” PowerPoint presentation This presentation will be split into three main parts: Steps of the scientific method and definitions of key terms Experimental Design Guide Research Tips

10. Once students have completed this module, they will be able to:  Draw logical conclusions based upon observations and analyzed data  Design an experiment which will include the presence and manipulation of variables (independent, dependent, controlled)  Create a graphical display of result data  Research a chosen topic to determine which independent and dependent variables to be tested, and which variables to hold constant (controlled).

11. As a final task in becoming a Super Science Sleuth, Students will be given their own Experimental Design Worksheet to create an experiment about a topic of interest. This worksheet will be the basis of their Science Fair Project.

12. For completion of this unit, there will be two assessments: A formal (traditional) exam which will test students’ knowledge mastery of the content matter (steps of the scientific method, experimental design, pertinent vocabulary terms) A performance assessment will be administered. This assessment will challenge the students to evaluate a sample experimental design and note any flaws in logic or methods used by the scientist.

13. Once this is done, you will have a room full of… Super Science Sleuths!!!!!