Variables Final Special Project

I can state a prediction and a hypothesis based on background information or an observed pattern of events.

I can select appropriate methods and tools for collecting data and information.

I can carry out procedures, controlling the major variables.

So, you now have a firm grasp of what independent, dependent and controlled variables are. It is now time for you to show me that you have mastered these concepts.

As this is one of our first special projects, I am going to give you a few guidelines and hints to get you started. As we work through these throughout the year, I will be providing fewer hints and guidelines as you become more independent scientists.

In this project, you are going to demonstrate your mastery of independent, dependent and controlled variables. You will also be making a prediction, choosing the best tools to carry out the lab and ensuring that you control all other variables (that you are not testing).

After you have completed the lab, you will submit to me a lab write-up that has been completed in a Word document with a font size no larger than 12. If you decide that you want to include a diagram, please feel free to hand-draw it in after you have printed our your report. If at any time you need help with this assignment, please make sure that you ask. This is your first one so I am sure there will be many questions.

Title: Stuck On You

Problem: Which type of tape is the strongest?

Materials:

  • Paper
  • Pencil
  • Different types of tape (your choice)
  • Coins or other small heavy objects
  • Piece of fuzzy fabric
  • Ruler

Procedure:

  1. Hang the same length of each type of tape from the bottom of a table (not the side of the table, but the underneath of the table). There should be a short length of tape attached to the bottom of the table, and a longer length hanging down.
  2. Stick the same small objects to each piece of tape until the tape is pulled off the table.
  3. Count the number of objects each piece of tape holds before it falls and write down your findings.
  4. Once you have completed that test, you can begin the next one.
  5. Test new pieces of each type of tape by attaching and removing the same piece to some fabric. Count how many times each kind of tape sticks to the fabric before it loses its stickiness. Record your findings.
  6. Clean up.

Observations:As you complete your lab, ensure that you are recording your observations. I encourage you to create a table of results that you keep next to you as you are doing your experiment. Mine would look something like this:

Type of Tape / Number of Coins / # Times Tape Sticks to Fabric / Observations
Clear tape
Masking tape
Electrical tape
Gray duct tape
Camo duct tape
Carpet tape
Painting tape
Double-sided tape
Packing tape

Of course, your observation table may look very different from mine which is completely fine as long as you are accurately and consistently recording your data.

When you have completed your lab and you are satisfied with the data you have collected, you are now ready to complete your lab write-up. I am attaching to this portion of our website as well as to the administrative page what I would like your lab write-ups to look like. Please ensure that you follow this template unless otherwise stated. In this lab write-up, you need to ensure that you identify the independent, dependent and controlled variables of your lab. You will also need to include a diagram.

Good luck!