This module has been developed from the Battelle Controlled Experiment Module Template to help middle school students through the scientific process of asking a question, gathering background knowledge, developing and carrying out testing, gathering data, analyzing data, and reporting on that analysis. It focuses on the writing process that follows experimentation as well as the Next Generation Science Standards related to the process of photosynthesis. The module embeds content that leads to strong understanding of factors that influence photosynthetic rate as measured by carbon dioxide concentration. However, background knowledge of the process of photosynthesis (reactants, products, location within the cell, limiting factors of photosynthesis, and the relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration) will either need to be taught prior to the module or incorporated in the module. Students will be able to choose how they explore this concept through a variety of perspectives:
How carbon dioxide affects plant carbon dioxide production and usage.
How light (quality or quantity) affects plant carbon dioxide production and usage. How temperature affects plant carbon dioxide production and usage.
How water (quality or quantity) affects plant carbon dioxide production and usage.
The Battelle Controlled Experiment Module Template allows students to investigate a question they have in hopes of learning information that can better society or re-test information to help prove it in a real-world application. It has been designed to be the second module of a three-part Battelle LDC Science Collection: Data Analysis, Controlled Experimentation, and Design. The series represents a continuum of skills that build upon each other. For instance, the Design Process is predicated by the ability to test solutions in a controlled manner (i.e., carry out a controlled experiment), and the ability to carry out a controlled experiment that produces meaningful results is predicated on the ability to accurately analyze data. It is advisable, therefore, that students be relatively fluent in experimentation prior to completing the design module—and relatively fluent in data analysis before completing a Battelle Controlled Experiment Module. If your students do not yet have a sound foundation in data analysis, they should complete a Battelle Data Analysis Module first. If they are already easily analyzing data to draw conclusions, this module should be a good fit.
