2. 4.1.2 Recognize and describe that results of scientific investigations are seldom exactly the same. If differences occur, such as a large variation in the measurement of plant growth, propose reasons for why these differences exist, using recorded information about investigations. (Core Standard)
3. Definitions: Force: strength or energy put forth : active power Gravity: the gravitational attraction of the mass of a heavenly body (as the earth) for bodies at or near its surface http://www.wordcentral.com
4. Background Information Gravity is the force that pulls every object to Earth. During scientific investigations results are seldom the same, especially when dealing with gravity. In the two activities you will see and record falling of objects, the effects that gravity has on them, and the number of times the results are the same, if any.
5. Activity One: R a c e t o t h e F i n i s h L i n e Materials Needed (variety of balls) *red stress ball* *black handball* *green bell ball* *white golf ball* *red/white rubber ball* *baseball* *silver metal balls* *2 toy cars* *binder (for ramp)* *Pencil (use to hold objects at top of ramp)* *Science notebook and Pencil* http://www.eurekalert.org/kids/aaas/Falling_for_Gravity_final.pdf
6. Here’s what to do… First make a ramp using the binder. Make sure that the ramp is tilted just a little bit so that the materials will roll slowly, so you can watch them better. Next, take two balls or cars of your choice and line them up evenly at the top of the ramp. Use the pencil as a gate to hold the materials in place. Lift the pencil evenly, to let both objects roll down the ramp and start at the same time. Watch the finish line closely to see which one lands first or if it is a tie. (Record in table format on the next slide) Do the race at least three or four times to check for accuracy. *Repeating the steps try other objects to see if it matters, if the results will always end the same, fill out at least 4 different tables to check results.* Answer in journal: Does one object win the race, or is it a tie? Are the results the same for every race? (10 points) http://www.eurekalert.org/kids/aaas/Falling_for_Gravity_final.pdf
7. Use this table to record your answer by copying into your science journal. There are four lines, write down the objects (cars or balls) being raced down the ramps in one column. In the other column write down the winner or if it was a tie. Using this table, at the end record your answers. *Remember this table is just for one race of the same object. Test each race at least four times. Start a new table when you change objects being raced.* (3 points for each table completed-maximum 4 tables)
8. Activity two: Materials Needed: Variety of balls Coins Orange Paper Black Fuzzy Pom Science Journal Pencil Down, Down, Down, To the ground
9. Here’s what to do… Copy the chart from the next slide into your science journal to record the results of the drop. Next, pick two objects of your choice from the materials list to drop. Then, hold the two objects straight out in front of you and drop them. Watch closely to see which one lands first. Make sure to test each drop with those objects at least 3 times. *Repeat these steps with other objects on the list, make sure to try at least 4 different test of multiple objects to see if the results stay the same or change.* Answer in science journal: Are the results the same every time? Why do you think the results are this way? (10points)
10. Use this chart to record your answers from the drops. Record which objects are being dropped, which one landed first or if it was a tie landing. Copy the chart and into your science journal and write the results in it as well. These results may help you to answer the questions at the end. (3points for each table completed-maximum 4 tables)
11. Questions: Please make sure to answer all of these questions in the science journal after you have completed both activities: Looking at both activities, were your results always the same? Why or why not? 10points Do you think that it is important to test investigations more than one time or should scientist go with their first results? Why or why not? 10points How many times do you think a scientist should test an investigation? 10points One bonus point for completing the activities will be given
