Definition: Scientific Inquiry requires students to use higher order thinking skills as they learn science using a hands-on minds-on approach.
The Scientific Inquiry category is the basic experimentation category and covers Scientific Methodology, Research, Hypothesis, Experiment Design, Data Collection and Analysis.
Requirements:
A successful Scientific Inquiry entry must have the following:
- Scientific method must be utilized
- Ask a testable question
- Research the topic
- Make a hypothesis about the outcome based on the research or their own knowledge
- Design the investigation
- Conduct the investigation
- Collect Data
- Make sense of the data and draw a conclusion
- Present their findings for peer review
- Tri-fold display must address all elements of scientific method, must include visuals
- Project display must be viewer friendly and safe
Additional judging is based on the following:
- The scientific method shows completeness of thought and cause and effect are clearly explained
- The Inquiry relates to broader scientific principles, real world applications
- The idea for investigation is original or innovative
- The procedure, materials, trial length, etc. are innovative or creative in approach
Business/Career possible connections:
Scientist, researcher, industry, education
