Introduction to the Scientific Method and Claim, Evidence and Reasoning (CER)
- Google Drive™ folder
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Description
This fun and engaging activity (GOOGLE and PDF versions) is a great way to introduce the scientific method to students with an emphasis on planning an investigation and writing a strong conclusion using the claim, evidence, and reasoning structure (CER).
Students are initially guided through a “pretend” investigation which includes practicing identifying the three types of experimental variables and writing a CER conclusion.
The students are now ready to design and perform investigations into two properties of toilet paper. They will make predictions, identify the appropriate variables, perform the experiments, construct and complete data tables, and write two CER conclusions after analyzing the data.
Math/ science integration is included in this lesson as students calculate the cost of one sheet of each type of toilet paper and subsequently answer three analysis questions.
Easily obtainable materials are used for these activities (see a possible list below).
The science and engineering practices below are incorporated in this investigation:
Planning and carrying out investigations.
Analyzing and interpreting data
Engaging in argument from evidence
Included in this resource:
Teacher slides (27 slides)
Detailed teacher notes (8 pages)
Printable student worksheets with activity instructions (6 pages)
Sample answers for student activities
Suggested materials for this activity:
Three types of toilet paper, coins, small weights, dropper pipettes, graduated cylinders, small containers (beakers)
You may also like:
CER Introduction and Application with the "Great Virus Debate" SEP-7
Physical Science Investigations Incorporating the CER Structure NGSS Aligned
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Email any questions you have with subject line “Questions on toilet paper testing” to us at engagersinscience@gmail.com and we’ll be happy to answer them
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