Science
This domain tests your ability to plan inquiry-based science, identify variables and address children's misconceptions safely.
Core rules
- Scientific inquiry involves questions, predictions, fair tests, data, explanation and communication.
- A fair test changes one independent variable, keeps controlled variables constant and measures a dependent variable.
- Process skills: observing, classifying, measuring, inferring, predicting and communicating.
- The 5E model - Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate - puts exploration before formal explanation.
- Address misconceptions directly with evidence; do not simply tell students they are wrong.
- Safety: risk assessment, eye protection, safe handling, no tasting and clear instructions.
Worked example
A class asks, Does light affect bean plant growth? Groups place plants on a windowsill and in a cupboard. To make it fair, use the same bean type, pot size, soil, water volume and measurement schedule; change only light. Measure height every two days with a ruler. The reasoning: if water or pot size differed, the effect could be due to those variables, not light. The conclusion should be limited to the evidence and the test conditions.
Traps
Do not confuse a demonstration with inquiry: students need to investigate, not just watch. Do not let two variables change at once. Do not say a hypothesis is proved; data can support or not support it. Do not use anthropomorphic explanations such as the plant wants light as scientific reasoning. Do not skip safety planning for apparently harmless materials.