4: Experimental Design
STEP 1: Today, you get to design your own science investigation! You’ve learned about polymerization, chromatography, and luminescence—now it’s your turn to ask questions and explore. Choose one topic and create an experiment using materials around you. You can come up with your own idea or try one of the suggestions below.
Follow this format (same as before):
Question: What do I want to find out?
Sample(s): What will I test or observe?
Method: How will I set up and carry out my experiment?
What did I notice? Write down what you see. Include pictures or videos if you can!
Need an idea? Try one of these:
Polymerization:
- What happens if I change the amount of borax in slime?
- How do different liquids (glue vs. clear glue) affect polymer strength?
- What’s the difference between slime left out overnight vs. fresh slime?
Chromatography:
- Which markers have the most colors hidden inside?
- How does paper type (filter paper, coffee filter, cardboard) affect the spread?
- Can I separate colors from food dye or candy wrappers?
Luminescence:
- Which glow stick color lasts the longest?
- Does temperature affect how bright or how long a glow stick glows?
- Can I recreate glowing effects with household materials (tonic water, highlighters, etc.)?
You’re the scientist now—ask questions, get curious, and explore!
STEP 2: Use the QR code below to upload your experimental plan and results. Write out your response using the format below. Be sure to type your first name in the “Subject” line when you upload.
What to include:
- Question: What do I want to find out?
- Sample(s): What will I look at?
- Method: How will I prepare and compare my slides?
- What did I notice? (Write what you expect to see—or what you end up seeing if you already started!)
