Virginia SOL 6.1.a

6.1.a is a Standards of Learning science standard. These are the key ideas and practices under it.

• 6.1.a.i

  ask questions to determine relationships between independent and dependent variables

• 6.1.a.ii

  develop hypotheses and identify independent and dependent variables

• 6.1.a.iii

  offer simple solutions to design problems

01

What Students Need to Do

Students turn observations into testable questions about cause and effect. They write a hypothesis, identify what changes and what is measured, and suggest a simple solution to a defined problem.

02

What Mastery Looks Like

A student writes a question that can be tested by changing one factor and measuring another. The student labels both variables correctly, states a clear prediction, and proposes a workable solution that meets the stated need.

03

Common Misconceptions

Students often swap the independent and dependent variables or name controlled factors as variables. They may write a hypothesis as a question or unsupported guess. They may also suggest a solution without connecting it to the problem.

04

How to Assess It

Exit ticket: For “Does ramp height affect toy-car distance?” write a hypothesis and label both variables. Then suggest one simple way to keep a lunchbox cold.

1. 01

   Give groups paper helicopters, then have them change blade length, predict flight time, and name the independent and dependent variables.

2. 02

   Ask students to write and defend a testable question about how light duration affects plant growth.

3. 03

   Play Variable Sort with scenario cards, and have teams label each factor independent, dependent, or controlled.

4. 04

   Present a warm classroom problem, then ask students to define the need and sketch a simple cooling solution.

• 3.1.a

  The 3rd Grade version of this standard.

• 4.1.a

  The 4th Grade version of this standard.

• 2.1.a

  The 2nd Grade version of this standard.

• 1.1.a

  The 1st Grade version of this standard.