Online Scientific Method
Students will investigate an urban myth regarding crickets. Students will come to a conclusion regarding the following research question: what can be determined by the sound of a cricket chirp? Students will use an online lab simulation to practice the steps of the scientific method. Students will determine which environmental variables influence how fast a cricket chirps. Students will perfect their ability to construct and interpret data charts and graphs.
Objectives
Students will practice the steps of the Scientific Method.
Students will learn how to use an OnLine Lab simulation.
Students will determine which environmental variables influence how fast a cricket chirps
Students will practice constructing and interpreting data charts and graphs.

     
Materials
Laptops
IB Internal Assessment Criteria for lab write up
 
Procedure
Students will perform the following the Cricket Lab.
Students will use the guidesheet to navtigate through the simulation.
Students will use the IB Internal Assessment Crieteria to guide them for their lab write up.
References
Cricket Lab Simulation:
 
Cricket Lab Worksheet:
Adapted from Mrs. Muskopf's version: http://www.biologycorner.com/bio3/unit1.php
 
State Standards
1.2.1- The student will identify meaningful, answerable scientific questions.
1.2.2- The student will pose meaningful, answerable scientific questions.(NTB)
1.2.3- The student will formulate a working hypothesis.
1.2.4- The student will test a working hypothesis.(NTB)
1.2.7- The student will use relationships discovered in the lab to explain phenomena observed outside the laboratory.
1.4.1- The student will organize data appropriately using techniques such as tables, graphs, and webs (for graphs: axes labeled with appropriate quantities, appropriate units on axes, axes labeled with appropriate intervals, independent and dependent variables on correct axes, appropriate title).
1.4.2- The student will analyze data to make predictions, decisions, or draw conclusions.
1.4.3- The student will use experimental data from various investigators to validate results.
1.4.4- The student will determine the relationships between quantities and develop the mathematical model that describes these relationships.
1.4.5- The student will check graphs to determine that they do not misrepresent results.
1.4.6- The student will describe trends revealed by data.
1.4.7- The student will determine the sources of error that limit the accuracy or precision of experimental results.
1.4.9- The student will use analyzed data to confirm, modify, or reject an hypothesis.
1.5.1- The student will demonstrate the ability to summarize data (measurements/observations).
1.5.2- The student will explain scientific concepts and processes through drawing, writing, and/or oral communication.
1.5.3- The student will use computers and/or graphing calculators to produce the visual materials (tables, graphs, and spreadsheets) that will be used for communicating results.(NTB)
1.5.4- The student will use tables, graphs, and displays to support arguments and claims in both written and oral communication.
1.5.5- The student will create and/or interpret graphics. (scale drawings, photographs, digital images, field of view, etc.)
1.5.9- The student will communicate conclusions derived through a synthesis of ideas.
1.6.2- The student will use computers and/or graphing calculators to perform calculations for tables, graphs, or spreadsheets.(NTB)
1.7.4- The student will recognize mathematics as an integral part of the scientific process.(NTB)
3.1.2- The student will be able to discuss factors involved in the regulation of chemical activity as part of a homeostatic mechanism.
3.5.1- The student will analyze the relationships between biotic diversity and abiotic factors in environments and the resulting influence on ecosystems.
6.4.2- Design and conduct the research. Methods of data collection may include field or laboratory questionnaire/opinionnaire
6.4.3- Interpret the findings to draw conclusions and make recommendations to help resolve the issue.
Lesson Resources