Crafting Investigative Questions Through Scientific Phenomena

Mr. Andersen's mini lesson focuses on developing testable and investigative questions related to natural phenomena. The video guides viewers through identifying phenomena, formulating questions, and making predictions using examples like Newton's Cradle and rattlebacks. The lesson emphasizes the importance of scientific inquiry and planning investigations, even when direct experimentation is not possible.

What is the primary focus of the lesson on asking questions?

• To ask more investigative and testable questions

• To understand philosophical inquiries

• To memorize scientific facts

• To learn about historical questions

Which of the following is NOT a scientific question about Newton's Cradle?

• Did Newton invent the Cradle?

• How does the release height affect motion?

• What happens if more than one sphere is launched?

• How does the material of the spheres affect motion?

What is an investigative question?

• A question that can be answered with a yes or no

• A question that involves changing a variable to see its effect

• A question that requires historical research

• A question that is purely theoretical

What prediction is made about the height of sphere release in Newton's Cradle?

• The motion will stop immediately

• The motion will remain unchanged

• The motion will be longer

• The motion will be shorter

What phenomenon is introduced for students to generate their own questions?

• Bubble levitator

• Rattlebacks

• Pendulum

• Magnetic fields

What happens when a rattleback is spun clockwise?

• It continues spinning in the same direction

• It rattles and then reverses direction

• It spins faster

• It stops immediately

Which question about rattlebacks is NOT testable?

• Is it a magnetic phenomenon?

• Does the surface texture affect its motion?

• Are the rattlebacks unequally weighted?

• Why does it want to spin counterclockwise?

What investigative method is suggested for testing if rattlebacks are unequally weighted?

• Observing under a microscope

• Measuring with a ruler

• Adding weights like clay or Play-Doh

• Using a stopwatch

What is the prediction about the effect of a magnet on rattlebacks?

• The magnet will increase its speed

• The magnet will stop its motion

• The magnet will have no effect

• The magnet will change its direction

What is the purpose of making predictions in scientific investigations?

• To eliminate variables

• To guide the investigation process

• To avoid conducting experiments

• To confirm existing theories