Virginia SOL PS.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 turn a testable question into a clear investigation that can be completed alone or with a team. They identify the changed factor, measured outcome, constants, and comparison condition when needed. They follow safe procedures while collecting useful data.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student writes steps another group can follow and explains why the test is fair. The student changes one factor, records measurements accurately, and uses chemicals and equipment safely.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may label every part of an investigation as a variable or confuse the measured outcome with the changed factor. They may think every observational study needs a control group. They also may overlook constants, repeated trials, goggles, or safe chemical disposal.
How to Assess It
- Use this exit ticket: “Plan a test of how water temperature affects sugar dissolving time. Name the changed factor, measured outcome, three constants, a comparison condition, and one safety step.”
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Teams test how water temperature affects sugar dissolving time, using goggles, equal water volumes, identical cups, and repeated trials.
Give two investigation plans and ask, “Which is a fair test, and what needs to be held constant?”
Run a card sort where students classify investigation details as changed factor, measured outcome, constant, comparison condition, or safety step.
Students compare two paper towel brands by measuring water absorbed, then use their results to make a purchasing recommendation.
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Printable PS.1.b.i Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to PS.1.b.i, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
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Related Standards
- 4.1.b.ii
collaboratively plan and conduct investigations
- LS.1.b.i
The Grades 7–8 version of this standard.
- 6.1.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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