Subject: Science
Grade Level: Grade 7
Objective: Differentiate dependent from independent variables
Learning across the curriculum:
1. Mathematics - Graphing and analyzing data to identify relationships between
variables.
2. Social Studies - Analyzing cause and effect relationships in historical events.
3. Technology and Livelihood Education - Conducting experiments to test variables
in different food recipes.
Elicit:
- Ask students if they have ever conducted an experiment or observed a scientific
investigation. Discuss their experiences and ask them if they are familiar with the
terms "dependent variable" and "independent variable."
Engage:
1. Show a short video clip of a science experiment and ask students to identify the
independent and dependent variables. Discuss their answers as a class.
2. Conduct a mini-experiment in the classroom, changing one variable and observing
the effects on the outcome. Ask students to predict the outcome before conducting
the experiment.
3. Present a real-life scenario where dependent and independent variables are
involved, such as the relationship between study time and test scores. Engage
students in a discussion about possible variables and their effects.
Explore:
Activity 1: Pendulum Swing
Materials: A string, a weight (e.g. a small ball or a rock), a ruler, a stopwatch
Instructions:
1. Hang the string from a fixed point and attach the weight to the end.
2. Measure the length of the string from the fixed point to the weight.
3. Pull the weight to one side and release it, allowing it to swing back and forth.
4. Use the stopwatch to time the period of each swing.
5. Repeat the experiment, changing one variable at a time (e.g. length of the string,
weight of the object).
6. Record the data and observe the relationship between the variables.
Rubrics:
- Criteria: Accurate measurement and recording of data, identification of independent
and dependent variables
- Points: 10
Assessment questions:
1. What is the independent variable in this experiment?
2. How does changing the length of the string affect the period of the pendulum
swing?
Activity 2: Plant Growth Experiment
Materials: Plant seeds, soil, pots, water, sunlight
Instructions:
1. Divide students into groups and provide each group with the same type of plant
seeds, soil, and pots.
2. Instruct students to plant the seeds in the pots and provide them with the same
amount of water and sunlight.
3. Assign different independent variables to each group, such as the amount of water
given or the presence of fertilizer.
4. Over a period of time, observe and record the growth of the plants.
5. Discuss the differences in plant growth among the groups and identify the
independent and dependent variables.
Rubrics:
- Criteria: Accurate observation and recording of plant growth, identification of
independent and dependent variables
- Points: 10
Assessment questions:
1. What is the dependent variable in this experiment?
2. How does the amount of water given affect the growth of the plants?
Activity 3: Sports Performance Study
Materials: Stopwatch, measuring tape, sports equipment (e.g. basketball,
soccer ball)
Instructions:
1. Choose a specific physical activity or sport (e.g. shooting free throws in basketball,
kicking a soccer ball).
2. Divide students into pairs or small groups.
3. Instruct each group to measure and record the performance of their chosen
activity, focusing on one independent variable at a time (e.g. distance from the
basket, angle of the shot).
4. Analyze the data and discuss the relationship between the independent and
dependent variables.
Rubrics:
- Criteria: Accurate measurement and recording of data, identification of independent
and dependent variables
- Points: 10
Ass questions:
1. What is the independent variable in this experiment?
2. How does changing the angle of the shot affect the performance in the chosen
activity?
Explain:
1. Provide a clear definition of dependent and independent variables, using
examples from the previous activities.
2. Present a visual aid, such as a diagram or graph, to further illustrate the concept.
Elaborate:
1. Conduct a class discussion on the importance of identifying dependent and
independent variables in scientific investigations.
2. Assign small groups to research and present examples of scientific studies that
involve dependent and independent variables.
Evaluate:
1. Give students a set of scenarios and ask them to identify the dependent and
independent variables in each.
2. Create a rubric for a written response where students explain the importance of
identifying dependent and independent variables in scientific investigations.
Extend:
- Encourage students to design their own experiments that involve dependent and
independent variables. They can present their proposals in class and receive
feedback from their peers.
Assignment:
Write a reflection paper on the importance of identifying dependent and independent
variables in scientific investigations. Include examples from real-life situations to
support your explanation.
By following this 7Es lesson plan, students will have a comprehensive understanding
of dependent and independent variables in scientific investigations. They will be able
to differentiate these variables and apply their knowledge in designing and
conducting experiments.
