How to Set Up a Science Notebook
Keeping a good science notebook ensures students are following the scientific method. This is a great way to scaffold for students who are unfamiliar with the process completely as well as serving as a great organizational tool for students who are more familiar with the process. Good notes in an organized fashion with pictures is a great reference tool as you move from one day to the next. This works well with experiments or investigations that last days or weeks. It can also be applied to shorter term investigations as well. A good example of this is the engineering of an ice cube and documenting in intervals, such as minutes, the phase change from a solid to a liquid.
The following checklist can be used to assess how well a student is keeping records during science activities. You may consider giving students a copy of the checklist to enable them to monitor themselves through the process.
General information
Question or problem being investigated is stated.
All entries are dated.
Writing conventions (e.g., punctuation, capitalization) are correct.
Presentation is clear.
Observations
Description is very detailed
Description is complete
Illustrations
Drawings are accurate
Drawings are in color
Drawings are labeled
Procedure
List materials used
Sequence steps followed
Communication of data
Graphic/table is complete
Graphic/table is labeled.
Graphic/table is mathematically correct.
Written portions are clear and complete.
Analysis, Argumentation, and Conclusion
Analysis is clear and logical.
Explanations and claims are made using evidence from the data.
New questions, models, or investigations proposed.
Line of Learning
New learning is shared.
New curiosities are shared
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