Science / Year 7 / Science inquiry / Planning and conducting

Curriculum content descriptions

select and use equipment to generate and record data with precision, using digital tools as appropriate (AC9S7I03)

Elaborations
  • selecting and using equipment appropriate to the investigation, such as ensuring a selected thermometer can measure within the range of temperatures expected, or selecting an appropriate-capacity measuring cylinder for the volume of liquid needed
  • examining how the use of digital tools such as stopwatches and digital scales can enable the generation of more precise data
  • constructing tables, spreadsheets and graphic organisers to collect data and information
  • using appropriate standard units and performing simple unit conversions when recording data
  • using digital tools such as sensors to measure abiotic factors and apps that use image or call recognition to make field identifications
General capabilities
  • Numeracy Numeracy
ScOT terms

Accuracy and precision,  Data collection,  Instrumentation (Technology)

Interactive

Fair test

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Energy-efficient house

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Experimentals: Building with different shapes

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iPlan

This resource contains ten IWB flipcharts as well as Flash alternative exercises and models how to plan a scientific investigation, choose the right equipment and follow safe working practices.

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Measuring Speed (Simulation)

Students use this resource consisting of a webpage with diagrams of three cars that students can vary the speed at which they are travelling. They can calculate the time to travel 3000m and then observe the cars as they travel the distance. This demonstrates how to work out the speed of a moving object and how to make calculations ...

Online

Water: learn it for life! - year 7 science

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Density Simulation (sk-Intel)

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Friction: Friend or foe?

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Rate of Photosynthesis

Students use this resource consisting of eight slides with diagrams, written explanation and voice-over to understand how to measure the rate of photosynthesis and understand what factors affect it. A detailed method is suggested for measuring the effect of varying levels of light. There is a two-question quiz and a summary slide.

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Working towards a renewable energy future

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Catalyst: What is a megafire?

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Human landscapes – inquiry-based learning through Sydney Metro – Stage 4

This inquiry-based unit of work was created, trialled and peer reviewed as part of a professional learning program in inquiry-based learning for school teachers. The professional learning courses were part of a pilot partnership between the NSW Government’s Sydney Metro transport agency and Western Sydney University. Students ...

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Marine scientist in the laboratory

This is a colour photograph of marine scientist Dr Miles Lamare. Dr Lamare is in his office at the Portobello Marine Laboratory at the University of Otago, New Zealand. On the desk behind Dr Lamare is the scientific equipment he uses to download data from electronic tags, which he attaches to sea stars.

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Wild ride: get a grip

Investigate the role of friction in performance of bicycle tyres. Test how the type of tread affects grip and speed. Choose tyres best suited to track and weather conditions in a time trial. This learning object is one in a series of four objects.

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It's a drag

Investigate the braking efficiency of cars and trucks. Test stopping distances under controlled conditions. Compare effects of vehicle type, tyres, road surface and weather conditions. Choose driving speed, then apply brakes and compare stopping distances. Answer questions about friction, tyres and driver fatigue. This ...

Interactive

Give me a brake

Investigate braking efficiency of cars and trucks by testing stopping distances under controlled conditions. Test effects of vehicle type, tyres, road surface and weather conditions. Choose driving speed, then apply brakes and compare stopping distances. Estimate distances from target markers. Answer questions about antilock ...

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Seasons

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Types of matter: solids, liquids and gases

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Could you make a unicorn by crossing DNA?

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Environmental and Zoo Education Centres – high school resources

A collection of geography and science resources for high school teachers and students to support teaching and learning from home. The resources were developed by Department of Education teachers from 25 Environmental and Zoo Education Centres in NSW and include Google Sites, programs and activities.