Lesson+1

Grade Level:  9 through 12

Unit:  Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physics Lesson Objectives (include 4 or 5): Student will understand 
 * The distinct steps of the scientific method (Observation, Question, Hypothesis, Prediction, Experimentation, and Conclusion).
 * The way that the scientific method is applied to answer questions and solve problems of all kinds.

Student will be able to 


 * Think critically about the problem solving process.
 * Apply what they've learned about the scientific method in performing laboratory exercises and understanding scientific research.

Time Required to complete this lesson:  5 to 10 minutes of classtime. 1 to 2 hours of homework.

Title of lesson:  Scientific Method Essay Description of lesson (if you were to describe to a parent what was happening in the classroom for this lesson, what would you say in 3-5 sentences).  Students will learn the definitions of each step of the scientific method in class. They will then recount an activity or event in their lives (not necessarily science-related) where they used the steps of the scientific method. Finally, they will write a short essay (1 to 2 pages) about this activity or event being sure to incorporate where they used the steps of the scientific method.

Assignment (homework or in-class: this is how the learner will practice the learning that has just occurred):  1 to 2 page essay, no outside references required. Preferably, this essay will be typed. Students may also record an oral essay on Vocaroo in lieu of or in addition to the written essay.

Resources/materials needed:  Computer equipment, either at the students' homes or at the school computer lab, to type and print the essay. A typewriter might also be used although I assume that few students use typewriters anymore. Xtranormal film on my Teaching with Technology page.

Technology used:  Computer word processor, Xtranormal film on my Teaching with Technology page, Vocaroo

The technology used in this lesson changes the teaching / learning in this way: Expedites the writing process and eliminates the problem of the teacher trying to read poor penmanship. The Xtranormal film explains how the scientific method works in solving a problem that students should be familiar with. Vocaroo can provide an option for students to submit an oral essay via my Email.