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12th Grade  Project 2 weeks

"Nail Wars: Battle of the Press-Ons!"

Brittany B
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.7
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.11-12.7
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RST.11-12.3
Productive Collaborator
Critical Thinker
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This project empowers students to investigate the scientific principles of adhesion and chemical composition through a hands-on exploration of nail glue and press-on nails. By conducting experiments and synthesizing research, students will develop critical thinking skills and collaborate effectively to achieve a shared understanding of material performance. The project culminates in a public presentation, fostering communication skills and allowing students to demonstrate their findings and insights in a real-world context.

Learning goals

Students will investigate the impact of chemical compositions in nail glues on the adhesion and longevity of different press-on nail types. They will engage in collaborative research and experimentation, developing critical thinking skills to draw evidence-based conclusions. Through reflective journaling and video presentations, students will refine their ability to communicate scientific processes and findings effectively. The project aims to enhance students' ability to conduct complex procedures, synthesize information, and apply academic competencies to real-world scenarios.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.7 - Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.11-12.7 - Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RST.11-12.3 - Follow precisely a complex multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks; analyze the specific results based on explanations in the text.
Competencies
  • Productive Collaborator - Engages with others to achieve a common goal through building positive relationships, actively listening, showing empathy, and making individual contributions to a larger group.
  • Critical Thinker - Thinks deeply and makes informed decisions to create solutions or new understanding supported by relevant and reliable evidence.
  • Empowered Learner - Demonstrates mastery and application of academic competencies. Develops the skills and dispositions to persist through difficulties and plan for a future of self-improvement.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a comprehensive research report detailing their experimental methods, observations, and conclusions about the durability of different nail and glue combinations. They will also produce a reflective journal capturing their insights and learning journey, highlighting scientific principles and personal growth. Additionally, students will develop a video presentation that showcases their scientific process, findings, and analysis, culminating in a live demonstration at the 'Nail Durability Test Fair.'

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Nail Durability Test Fair' where students present their initial hypotheses about the effectiveness of different nail and glue combinations. Encourage interactive demonstrations where students can test various combinations and receive peer feedback. This event will serve as an engaging introduction, fostering curiosity and collaboration among students as they prepare to dive deeper into their research and experimentation.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Nail Durability Test Fair' where they present their research findings and demonstrate their experiments on nail glue and press-on nail combinations. Each group will create an interactive station where they showcase their video presentations, detailing their scientific process and results. Attendees, including peers and community members, will engage with students, providing feedback and asking questions to deepen understanding and spark discussions on the chemical principles involved.