Learning Goals
Students will be able to design a controlled crystal-growth investigation that varies the amount of borax while keeping other conditions consistent.
Students will be able to document changes in crystal size, shape, and color through measurements, observations, and photographs collected over 2–3 days.
Students will be able to analyze how different amounts of dissolved borax affect crystal growth using organized data and visual evidence.
Students will be able to justify a conclusion about borax amount and crystal growth while identifying limitations, incorporating feedback, and proposing an improvement.
Products
Crystal-Growth Investigation Notebook
Each student records the test plan, variables, borax measurements, safety procedures, observations, photos, data analysis, evidence-based conclusion, limitations, partner reflection, and a proposed improvement. The notebook must note that an adult handles boiling water and that samples are never tasted or touched.
Borax Crystal Results Exhibit and Presentation
Each team exhibits labeled pink pipe-cleaner crystal samples with process photos and organized comparisons, then gives a short oral explanation of how borax amount affected crystal size, shape, and color. The presentation synthesizes individual evidence, addresses anomalous results, and explains revisions made using feedback from the experienced friend.
No rubric has been generated yet.