Working+Scientifically

Working Scientifically
Practical work in science is an extremely important part of science. In the Australian Curriculum 50% of the science curriculum is designated as practical work. This is not only time spent in the Laboratory but also includes presentations, films, time in the school yard as well as excursions.


 * Working Scientifically involves:**
 * language development
 * learning to work cooperatively
 * experiencing natural phenomena
 * stimulating curiosity
 * motivating and enjoying science
 * developing investigation and problem-solving skills
 * developing techniques and manipulative skills associated with using scientific equipment
 * experiencing and developing an understanding of the nature of science
 * developing concepts

You will be spending much time during science lessons in groups where you will be required to participate in specific roles to benefit the whole group. The following roles are required to in Group Work:
 * Cooperative Group Work:**

The equipment manager is responsible for collecting, checking and returning equipment.
 * Equipment Manager:**

The speaker is the only group member who can ask the teacher or another groups speaker for assistance, and only after the group has formulated a clear question that they cannot answer.
 * Speaker:**

The director is responsible for making sure that the team understands the task and steps to be followed.
 * Director:**

The reporter is responsible for recording the initial findings or results and then sharing these results, firstly so that the group all has the results recorded in their books. The reporter is also responsible for reporting back to the class / or teacher on the group's findings.
 * Reporter:**

To work scientifically you will be required to make many observations and record these observations in your work book. Your observations will include using all your sensors at the appropriate times in your research and practicals. Observe colour changes, changes in state (solid, liquid, gas). Record how long after starting an experiment the change occurs and when the next changes occur. Carefully smell any changes in your experiment, we usually use one hand to carefully wave the odor from the experiment towards our nose (the Royal Wave Technique). Sometimes we will use a Thermometer to accurately measure temperature, however sometimes you can carefully use touch to determine if an experiment is giving off heat, getting hotter (exothermic). Use the sensitivity of your fingers or back of your hand to see if something is smooth, rough, spikey, soft, heavy or light. **Do not however touch chemicals or solutions with your fingers until you have been advised to directly by the teacher.** At certain time in Science you will be required to use taste sensation to determine if something is sour or sweet, tasty or tasteless. **Again only use this when you have been directly advised by your teacher.**
 * Working Scientifically:**
 * Eyesight**
 * Smell**
 * Temperature**
 * Touch**
 * Taste**


 * You will be required at times to make measurements. Ensure that you understand what you are measuring what units you should use and how to record your findings.**