This artifact is an excerpt from my lesson plans showing an example of an inquiry-based lab experiment conducted over two days along with two photos of the actual experiment going on in class. This is set up so that students can independently think about how they would conduct an experiment given the materials they have available to them. The next day, they confer with their lab partners to hear other ideas and then as a group decide on the best procedure. Then they conduct the procedure and write up their results. Since a recipe is not given, students do a variety of experiments, not all of which are successful. They do learn a whole lot along the way, however.
This artifact supports the indicator Curriculum and Discipline Design (2) designs and implements courses framed by the school’s pedagogical tenants – inquiry, experience, and integration.
Day 1
Direct Instruction
Solubility
Now we are going to use what we’ve learned so far about formulating questions and using the scientific method and apply it to a scientific concept called “Solubility.”
What is solubility? The ability of a given substance (the solute; usually a solid) to dissolve in another substance (the solvent; usually a liquid).
During out next class period, we will conduct experiments to determine the answer to the question, “How much salt dissolves in water?”
Your homework, due before the start of our is to write out a detailed procedure describing how you will answer this question. Show students the assignment on canvas.
Think about every step. Write out every step.
This is an all or nothing assignment, meaning it CANNOT be turned in late! Use your time in class today wisely and remember whatever is not finished in class today will be HW due before the next period.
Take this opportunity to look around the room and see what materials are available to you (equipment, etc). If you don’t see something you’d like to use, ask!
Homework Assignment
Day 2
Schedule for the Day
1. Share Experimental Design with Lab Partners & Decide Which Procedure Your Group Will Follow
2. Have Dr. Russell Review It
3. Conduct Experiment
4. Record Details of Experiment in OneNote
5. Clean Up
Homework
Photos
