Criteria for Experiments
Purpose:
- Is the objective of the experiment clear?
- Is the experiment relevant to you?
- What would it mean if your hypothesis is confirmed?
- What would it mean if your hypothesis is refuted?
References:
- Use at least two references to support your hypothesis or to help you interpret your data.
Design:
- Makes use of materials that are available
- Can be carried out in the time available
- Allows extra time for everything that can and will go wrong (Murphy's Law).
- Includes controls for the variable introduced
Safety:
- The experiments can be conducted safely without risk, now or later.
- Toxic materials used or produced can be disposed of in a safe, legal manner.
- Adequate protective equipment is used - safety glasses, gloves, etc.
Approval:
- The project has the entire group's input and approval
- Everyone is assigned a role. They understand their task and agree to do it.
- The project has the teacher's approval, BEFORE work begins.