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Science · Grade 6

Scientific Models, Variables and Measurement

Learners turn everyday questions into testable ones, name the independent, dependent and controlled variables, and measure length, mass, volume and temperature in SI units with sensible precision. They run a ramp simulation one variable at a time, use a simple mathematical model to predict, and compare physical, conceptual and mathematical models, always asking what a model shows and what it leaves out.

  • 4 lessons
  • About 115 minutes
  • Models, variables and measurement check: 11 questions
  • Ways to answer: fill in the blanks, choose an answer, estimate, draw a graph, highlight a text and match pairs
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What learners will discover

  • Turn a question into a testable question and identify the independent, dependent and controlled variables in an investigation.
  • Choose suitable SI units and instruments, read scales on rulers and graduated cylinders to a sensible precision, convert between metric units and record every measurement with its unit.
  • Plan a fair test that changes one variable at a time, use repeated trials and a mean, and describe the relationship shown by the data.
  • Distinguish physical, conceptual and mathematical models, use a model to make a prediction, and explain what a model shows and what it leaves out.

Lessons

  1. Testable questions and variables 9 steps5 practiceabout 25 min
  2. Measuring with SI units and instruments 9 steps5 practiceabout 27 min
  3. Fair tests: one variable at a time 9 steps5 practiceabout 28 min
  4. Models and their limits 9 steps5 practiceabout 25 min
  5. Models, variables and measurement check 11 questions at the end

Keep exploring

Games to practice with

  • Marble MountainLay straights, curves, drops and splitters to roll marbles down the mountain.
  • Bridge LabBuild a bridge from beams, brace it with triangles, and stay on budget.
  • Circuit Workshop 3DWire up batteries, bulbs and switches on a 3D workbench.

More 6th grade science

Guide for grown-ups