Students measure the mass, volume, length and area of various objects. The task assesses students' abilities to make simple observations and measurements.

This task is designed to take students approximately 10-15 minutes to complete.

Overall Task Content Area:

Physical Science

Specific Knowledge Areas:

Performance Expectations:

• applying scientific principles to develop explanations and solve new problems

Although this was developed as a high school task, the standard covered by the material is for grades 5-8.

12 A SI 1: Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry: Grades 9-12
1.3 Use technology and mathematics to improve investigations and communications. A variety of technologies, such as hand tools, measuring instruments, and calculators, should be an integral component of scientific investigations. The use of computers for the collection, analysis, and display of data is also a part of this standard. Mathematics plays an essential role in all aspects of an inquiry. For example, measurement is used for posing questions, formulas are used for developing explanations, and charts and graphs are used for communicating results.

4 B PS 1: Properties of objects and materials: Grades K-4
1.1 Objects have many observable properties, including size, weight, shape, color, temperature, and the ability to react with other substances. Those properties can be measured using tools, such as rulers, balances and thermometers.

(Use the "hot" link on the PALS home page to check the full text of related National Science Education Standards, if desired.)

General Instructions to the Teacher:

This task is designed to take students approximately 10-15 minutes to complete.

Students will be working individually during this exercise.

Students should be ready to work as soon as the period begins. The materials should be set out at each lab station, if possible. A central supply area, if needed, should be easily accessible. All supplies should be clearly labeled.

Materials for "Deliver":

The teacher will need:

• permanent marker
• envelopes
• plastic bags
• metal cans
• pencil
• beaker

At this station students should have:

• paper tape
• scissors
• metric ruler
• balance
• graduated cylinder
• plasticine
• sand
• envelope with assigned letter
• plastic bag with assigned letter
• metal can with assigned letter
• beaker with assigned letter

• Assign a letter to each student
• Label with student letter each envelope, bag, and can with permanent marker
• Label each beaker with student letters with pencil

Safety:

• Be careful.
• Teachers and students should always exercise appropriate safety precautions and utilize appropriate laboratory safety procedures and equipment when working on science performance tasks.

• N/A