Friday Fun Challenge

Bell task:–Write a 1 sentence answer to each question •What is a testable question?•What is a variable?•What is a dependent variable?•What is an independent variable?

– Compare and contrast your response with classmates; if their explanation brings about new thinking or learning for you, revise your answer.

Getting Started

• You will have – one recorder (to fill in the test data table)– One timer– One helicopter dropper (who also notes the direction)– One spin counter

• Your will be required to keep notes• You will turn in your data tables• You will be evaluated on your participation and use

of class time

Helicopter Challenge• Look at the example• Get an index card from the teacher• Cut out ONE helicopter using the

template shown here • Fold the helicopter along the

dotted lines• Add tape as indicated by the X• Add paperclips as instructed• Examine your model• Make detailed and accurate

observations of your helicopter (copy and complete the data table)

Helicopter Challenge

• Stand in the “drop zone”• Measure the distance from the floor to your helicopter• Record the measurement in your data table

• Drop your helicopter.• Record the number of times it spins• Record the direction it spins• Record the time (seconds) it takes to drop

• Repeat 3 times – THIS IS YOUR CONTROL

Record your Measurements/ data

Factors Baseline

Material Index card

Wing Length

Body Length

Body width

Paper clips 1

Folded wings No

Taped body Yes

Taped wings No

Test Data for test 1Trial Drop height Time Number of

spinsDirection of spins

Observations

1

2

3

AVE

Helicopter Challenge

• Review your test results and your factors• SELECT A GOAL (time, spins, direction) and write a

hypothesis for your goal • Select 1 (and only one!) variable to change • Change the variable (record your new

measurements in your data table)• Conduct your experiment and collect your data

(record in data table)– Make sure you run 3 tests for every one change you make!

• Our hypothesis is (if, then, because):

• Our independent variable is (what will you change):

• Our dependent variables are (what will you measure):

Record your Measurements/ data

Factors Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Trial 4 Trial 5

Material

Wing Length

Body Length

Body width

Paper clips

Folded wings

Taped body

Taped wings

Test Data for test 2 Drop height Time Number of

spinsDirection of spins

Observations

1 - A

1 - B

1 - C

2 - A

2 - B

2 - C

3 - A

3 - B

3 - C

Analysis and conclusion

• Our claim is:

• Our evidence is:

• Our conclusion is: