Virginia SOL 6.1.b.i
The Standard
independently and collaboratively plan and conduct observational and experimental investigations; identify variables, constants, and controls where appropriate, and include the safe use of chemicals and equipment
Virginia Standards of Learning for Science · The student will demonstrate an understanding of scientific and engineering practices by
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students plan a fair experiment or a focused observational study. They decide what to change or observe, what to measure, what to keep the same, and whether a control is needed. They follow clear steps and handle chemicals and equipment safely, alone or with classmates.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student can turn a testable question into numbered steps that another group could repeat. The student records measurements, keeps constants steady, labels variables correctly, uses a useful comparison, and follows safety rules.
Common Misconceptions
- Students often call every factor a variable or confuse what they change with what they measure. They may confuse a control with constants, change several factors at once, or treat goggles and cleanup as optional.
How to Assess It
- Give students this exit prompt: "Does water temperature affect how fast a sugar cube dissolves?" Ask them to label variables and constants, name a comparison, write four steps, and list two safety actions.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Pairs test how water temperature affects sugar dissolving time using goggles, plastic cups, thermometers, measured sugar, and teacher-prepared warm water.
Show two plant growth plans and ask students to identify variables, choose the fairer plan, and explain whether a control is needed.
Play a variable sort relay with investigation cards labeled changed, measured, constant, control, and unsafe procedure.
Have teams compare paper towel brands for cafeteria use by testing equal-sized sheets with measured water volumes and calculating absorbency per sheet.
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Printable 6.1.b.i Worksheet
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Related Standards
- 4.1.b.ii
collaboratively plan and conduct investigations
- LS.1.b.i
independently and collaboratively plan and conduct observational and experimental investigations; identify variables, constants, and controls where appropriate ...
- PS.1.b.i
independently and collaboratively plan and conduct observational and experimental investigations; identify variables, constants, and controls where appropriate ...
- 3.1.b.i
with guidance, plan and conduct investigations
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