International-Baccekeuarte
Different IB design labs for the following questions ..
1. How does the length of the wing of the helicopter affect it's time to reach the ground ?
2. How does jelly's density affect the refractive index of a laser
Research Question :
How does the extension of the elastic band (x) depand upon the height of release (h)?
- Have you formulated a clear and focused problem or research question based on the teacher's prompt? This should be an investigation into the relationship or function between two variables.
- What is your dependent variable? Even if the teacher's prompt gives you is the dependent variable you should identify it.
- What have you decided to be your independent variable? Make sure your terms are well defined. Don't say "the size of the crater" but rather "the depth of the crater as measured from the normal sand level".
- Identify relevant controlled variables. Be sure to use the terms dependent, independent and controlled when talking about the variables.
- You do not need to know the outcome of your research question. The identification of the relevant variables will tell you what to measure and what to graph.
DESIGN ASPECT TWO: Controlling variables
- Design a method for the effective control of the variables. Be sure to discuss each of the controlled variables as well the independent variable.
- Your method should include a list of materials and equipment.
- A sketch is often helpful in explaining your ideas.
- Details of how you plan to make measurements are important. Don't just say "I'll measure the time" but mention the timing device, what you will look for, issues of reaction time or parallax, etc.
DESIGN ASPECT THREE: Developing a method for collection of data
- You should discuss the amount of data you plan to take. This includes the number of data points and a discussion on the range and limits of this data.
- Also, your method should include repeated measurements, using an average for the given data point.
Design Aspect 1
Defining and Selecting Variables
State the research question clearly under the heading "Research question". It should be phrased in the form "how is y dependant on x".
If the topic is not obvious it is wise to write a paragraph introducing the topic before you state the research question.Identify and list the independent variable (this is the one you are changing, x) and dependent variable (the one that changes, y).
Identify and list the controlled variables. These are all the other quantities that you could change but that are being kept constant.
You will not be graded on writing a hypothesis but it is good practice to say what you expect to happen.
Design Aspect 2
Controlling the Variables
List the apparatus used
Draw a labelled diagram of the apparatus, a photo is also a good idea
Describe how you are going to change and measure the independent variable
Describe how you are going to measure the dependent variable.
Describe what you did to make sure the controlled variables remained constant.
Design Aspect 3
Developing a method for the collection of data
State the range of values of the independent variable that you are going to use.