Dissolving: scientific methods
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can identify features of a good method and use them to improve a method that will investigate dissolving.
Key learning points
- A method provides step-by-step instructions for how to carry out an investigation.
- Methods should include how equipment is used and specific amounts of substances used.
- Methods should be written so that they are both repeatable and reproducible.
- Methods are written concisely, using clear language and command words.
Keywords
Method - A method describes how an experiment is carried out; a step-by-step procedure.
Command word - Command words are words or phrases that indicate what you are expected to do. They are usually imperative verbs.
Repeatable - When the same person uses the same method and obtains the same / similar results when repeating the experiment.
Reproducible - When a different person uses the same/similar method as another and obtains the same / similar results as that other person.
Common misconception
Sometimes pupils like to write methods in paragraph form, which can be difficult to follow.
Suggest pupils draw labelled diagrams of key steps, write a sentence to describe each diagram, then go back to number them in order.
Teacher tip
Class cooperation! One pupil leaves room; remainder are given a set of shapes in a formation. Class works together providing verbal instructions - one at a time - to pupil who hasn't seen the image to recreate it. Pupils cannot use gestures.
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the first step in a scientific investigation?
Q2.Match the scientific process to its description:
Q3.Which of these is essential for a fair test in a scientific experiment?
Q4.Match each piece of apparatus to its use.
Q5.In a scientific investigation, a hypothesis is a guess that doesn't need to be based on previous knowledge.
Q6.The process of categorising objects or events based on common traits is called...
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the command word to its meaning in a scientific method:
Q2.The term for when the similar results are obtained by different people using the same method is...
Q3.Why is it important to use command words in a scientific method?
Q4.A describes how an experiment is carried out; a step-by-step procedure.
Q5.When gathering results from an experiment, it’s important to be confident they are as good as can be. This can be achieved by:
Q6.After completing an investigation you've collected multiple results. When calculating your average result any inconsistent results can be ignored, such as the result "47.3" in this table.
To help you plan your 7 science lesson on: Dissolving: scientific methods, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 science lesson on: Dissolving: scientific methods, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Solutions unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.