Free 11th Grade Chapter 0 Lesson Plan (Science)

Topic: identify the dependent and independent variables in an investigation or experiment

Objectives & Outcomes

• Students will be able to identify the dependent and independent variables in an investigation or experiment.

Materials

• Experimental set-up (e.g. laboratory experiment, field experiment)
• Defining terms: dependent variable, independent variable

Warm-up

• Review the concept of causality and explain that in order to determine cause and effect in an investigation or experiment, it is necessary to identify the dependent and independent variables.

Direct Instruction

• Introduce the concept of dependent and independent variables, explaining that these are two types of variables that are important in the design of an investigation or experiment.
• Dependent variables are the variables that are being studied, while independent variables are the variables that are being manipulated or changed.
• Using an example of an investigation or experiment, demonstrate how to identify the dependent and independent variables.
• Emphasize the importance of identifying these variables early in the design process, as they can affect the design and outcome of the investigation or experiment.

Guided Practice

• Have students work in pairs to complete an investigation or experiment using blank -graph paper.
• Provide guidance as needed to ensure that students are identifying the dependent and independent variables.
• After finishing, have students present their investigation or experiment to the class, explaining their design choices and their reasons for identifying the variables as they did.

Independent Practice

• Have students choose a real-world topic of interest and conduct an investigation or experiment on that topic.
• Encourage students to use technology such as computers or calculators to conduct their investigation or experiment.
• Have students document their investigation or experiment in a written report, including a description of their design, the results, and any conclusions they have drawn from their results.

Closure

• Have students share their written reports with the class.
• Ask students to reflect on what they have learned during the independent practice and how they might apply this learning to future investigations or experiments they conduct.

Assessment

• Observe students during the independent practice and give feedback on their ability to clearly identify the dependent and independent variables in their chosen investigation or experiment.
• Evaluate students' written reports and give feedback on their ability to clearly explain their findings and their ability to apply their learning to future investigations or experiments they conduct.