Links:
WOULD YOU LIKE TO TAKE A SURVEY?
OBJECTIVES:
Take a field survey
Record the location
Set a parameter for the size of the area to observe
Select and record data from a local area that can be observed regularly
Investigate the biotic and abiotic components of the area
Look for trends in data
PRIOR LEARNING:
Observation and record keeping skills
Ability to distinguish between biotic and abiotic factors in an environment
MATERIALS:
As per student
Computer with internet access
Secondary Biology textbook
Reference books from school library
WEBSITE/SUGGESTIONS:
http://www.unesco.org/csi/pub/source/rs9.htm
ROLES IN LESSON:
STUDENT:
Design and lead their investigation while working with a partner
Document the location of the survey area (ex: draw a map, use Google Earth, GPS, etc.)
Determine the appropriate size of their observation area (dependant upon the area they select)
Create data tables for collection information
Research and determine the proper names of the organisms found in the survey area
Write a summation of the information that was collected
TEACHER:
Assist in selecting, obtaining, or purchasing materials for students
Monitor student progress
Provide feedback along with checkpoints for work completion
WRAP UP:
Students share and compare their findings as a class
ASSESSMENT:
*Would you like to take a survey rubric
NYS STANDARDS:
STANDARD 1
Students will use mathematical analysis, scientific inquiry, and engineering design, as appropriate, to pose questions, seek answers, and develop solutions.
Key Idea 1:
The central purpose of scientific inquiry is to develop explanations of natural phenomena in a continuing and creative process.
Major Understandings
1.2a Inquiry involves asking questions and locating, interpreting, and processing information from a variety of sources.
Key Idea 3:
The observations made while testing proposed explanations, when analyzed using conventional and invented methods, provide new insights into natural phenomena.
Major Understandings
3.1a Interpretation of data leads to development of additional hypotheses, the formulation of generalizations, or explanations of natural phenomena.
Major Understandings
3.5a One assumption of science is that other individuals could arrive at the same explanation if they had access to similar evidence. Scientists make the results of their investigations public; they should describe the investigations in ways that enable others to repeat the investigations.
PRENTICE HALL REVIEW BOOK TOPIC:
Topic 8 Scientific Inquiry and Skills
Topic 9 Laboratory Skills
EXTENSION IDEA:
Students do not need to find a wooded plot of land to observe. This is unlimited, think outside of the box. Data collection could be at a farm, town hall, an elementary school, etc.)