MIDDLE SCHOOLS 7th Grade Life Science Spring 2003 Revision PROCESS SKILLS CHECKLIST for Core Labs

Core Lab:

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I. Observe and Measure

1. Identify qualitative or quantitative changes given conditions (e.g., temperature, mass, volume, time, position, length, etc.) before, during, and after an event

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2. Use appropriate tools (e.g., metric ruler, graduated cylinder, thermometer, balances, spring scales, stopwatches, etc.) when measuring objects, organisms, and/or events

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3. Use appropriate SI units (i.e., grams, meters, liters, degrees Celsius, and seconds); and SI prefixes (i.e., micro-, milli-, centi-, and kilo-) when measuring objects, organisms, and/or events

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II. Classify based on similarities, differences, and interrelationships

1. Use observable properties to place an object, organism, and/or event into a classification system (e.g. dichotomous keys)

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2. Identify properties by which a set of objects, organisms, and/or events could be ordered

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III. Experiment by making observations and measurements to test ideas

1. Ask questions about the world and design investigations that lead to scientific inquiry

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2. Evaluate the design of a scientific investigation

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3. Identify variables and/or controls in an experimental set-up (i.e. tested, experimental, and measured variables)

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4. Identify a testable hypothesis for an experiment

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5. Design and conduct experiments

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6. Recognize potential hazards and practice safety procedures in activities

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IV. Interpret and Communicate data by making inferences, predictions, or conclusions and by describing, recording, and reporting procedures and results

1. Report data in an appropriate method, given a procedure or information

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2. Interpret data tables, line, bar, trend, and/or circle graphs

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3. Evaluate data to develop reasonable explanations and/or predictions

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4. Accept or reject hypotheses when given results of an investigation

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5. Communicate scientific procedures and explanations

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V. Inquiry: the opportunity to ask a question, formulate a procedure, and observe phenomena

1. Use systematic observations, make accurate measurements, and identify and control variables

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2. Use technology to gather data and analyze results of investigations

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3. Review data, summarize data, and form logical conclusions

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4. Formulate and evaluate explanations by examining and comparing evidence, pointing out statements that go beyond evidence, and suggesting alternative explanations

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