Despite over 10 years of reform efforts, research still shows that students typically have inadequate conceptions of what science is and what scientists do. Many science students, as well as some teachers, use a single "scientific method" that, "proves a hypothesis" by systematic data collection. By following a prescribed set of steps, and writing…

Describes an activity that combines learning and assessment of students' measurement skills. Students strive to make measurements accurately and precisely at a series of stations that focus on measuring length, volume, and mass. (DDR)

Focuses on the development of graphing skills through a data collection activity that answers the question of the relationship between rubber band width and flight distance. Includes definitions of terms and instructions for helping students construct line and bar graphs. (DDR)

Provides an example that focuses on temperature and illustrates how in-depth study can meet multiple content standards for middle school science and mathematics in the subjects of measurement and data analysis. (DDR)