In this phase, students transition from observation to questioning and research. They begin by brainstorming possible research questions related to the demonstrated phenomenon.
Teachers may guide students towards specific research questions or encourage a more student-led approach. Students record their questions on sticky notes and use the Wonder Organizer to categorize and prioritize their ideas.
While engaging with books, articles, videos, or websites, students consider various factors (variables) that might influence the dependent variable, jotting them down on sticky notes. This research helps students gain a deeper understanding of the scientific concepts involved and provides context for their investigations.
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Revisit the Wonder organizer and lead a group brainstorming session on things the scientist does that may affect the outcome (DV).
Move the coloured sticky notes from what the “scientist does" on the Observe & Infer organizer to the area around the thought bubble on the Wonder organizer.
Use student phrasing. Re-word to clarify, add new ones as required.
It is helpful if visible "cues" are in sight to help with the brainstorming of variables, especially if you would like them to think of specific possibilities.
Teachers may differentiate by guiding students towards specific research questions or encouraging independent exploration, depending on student level.
For example, after observing the vacuum experiment, students might wonder how the size of the syringe affects the rate at which the marshmallow expands.
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Reflect on the care and skill needed for reliable results during the previous Replicate phase.
Build on their common experience to suggest ways to tweak the situation and alter these results.
Record their questions on sticky notes and use a Wonder DRiVe organizer to categorize and prioritize their ideas.
To further develop their understanding, students engage in background research using books, articles, videos, or websites.
This research helps students gain a deeper understanding of the scientific concepts involved and provides context for their investigations.Students consider various factors (variables) that might influence the dependent variable, jotting them down on sticky notes.

