Science Instruction by Inquiry: D. Livelybrooks, J. Baxter University of Oregon

Science by Inquiry Inquiry defined Example: World Cup Soccer Kick Mathematical opportunities in statistics and data analysis

Inquiry Defined Learn & use scientific processes: Pose question, identify variables Refine into a hypothesis Make a prediction Experiment to test prediction Revise hypothesis if necessary

Example: World Cup Soccer Kick Ask a question. Review prior knowledge. Energy conservation Momentum conservation Newton’s Laws Pose hypothesis predict.

Hypothesis: x  v; KE  h  v 2 ; ergo, x 2  h Expect doubling h results in x  sqrt(2) Example: World Cup Soccer Kick

A hypothesis and prediction involve: Independent variable (height) Dependent variable (ball distance) Constant variables (mass, etc.)

Collect Data Multiple trials– each ‘foot’ height.

Math Analysis Mathematical opportunities in statistics and data analysis: Represent data Describe data Interpret data

Table, Data height (m)distance (m)

Bar Graph

X-Y Graph

Describe Data Mathematical Opportunities… Range: variation Mode: most frequent Median: middle value Mean: arithmetic average

What if…? Interpret data: What if…? Interpolate values between data points Extrapolate values beyond data points Slope

Video Analysis

In Summary Together, Science Inquiry and Mathematical Opportunities: Identify meaningful context Pose hypothesis/conjecture Collect data Analyze data Support or modify hypothesis

Science Inquiry Guide Designing the Investigation Variable I will change (vary): Variable I will measure: Variables that are the same (fair test): Safety Materials Procedures (describe steps; draw a picture of procedure)

Science Instruction by Inquiry: D. Livelybrooks, J. Baxter University of Oregon