Plant Growth Experiments

In our study of plants, seventh graders designed experiments to see how plant growth is affected by light and water.  Students worked in groups to carry out the scientific method.  One group tested how different amounts of water affect plant growth while the other groups experimented with the amount of light plant receive.

Illinois State Standards:

11.A.3a  Formulate hypotheses that can be tested by collecting data.

11.A.3b  Conduct scientific experiments that control all but one variable.

11.A.3c  Collect and record data accurately using consistent measuring and recording techniques and media.

11.A.3d  Explain the existence of unexpected results in a data set.

11.A.3g  Report and display the process and results of a scientific investigation.

Objectives:

Students will:

-collaborate with peers to carry out the scientific method

-design an experiment to determine how plant growth is affected by varied amounts of light and water

-create appropriate data tables and graphs to display results

Assessment:

 Students were assessed on a lab report that outlined each step of the scientific method.  A rubric was used in the grading process.