Plan an investigation that learners should conduct in the form of worksheet. Yhe worksheet should include the following:
Apparatus that will be used
Conducting the experiment
Controlling variables
Recording of results
Replication of result
Title: Investigating the Effect of Fertilizer on Plant Growth
Objective: To determine the impact of different types of fertilizers on the growth of plants.
Apparatus:
1. Four identical potted plants
2. Three different types of fertilizers (e.g., organic fertilizer, chemical fertilizer, no fertilizer)
3. Measuring tape or ruler
4. Watering can or spray bottle
5. Notebook or worksheet for recording observations and data
Conducting the Experiment:
1. Start by labeling each potted plant as A, B, C, and D.
2. Determine the amount of each fertilizer to be used. Follow the instructions provided on the packaging for each type of fertilizer.
3. For Plant A, use organic fertilizer according to the specified amounts. For Plant B, use chemical fertilizer according to the specified amounts. For Plant C, do not use any fertilizer, only water the plant normally. Plant D will be the control plant with no fertilizer and regular watering.
4. Water the plants simultaneously using the same amount of water each day.
5. Place the plants in a well-lit area such as near a window or under a grow light.
6. Ensure that the room temperature and lighting conditions remain consistent throughout the investigation.
7. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil moist but not overly saturated.
8. Monitor and record the growth of the plants daily or weekly for a set period of time (e.g., four weeks). Observe changes in height, number of leaves, color, etc.
9. Take photographs or draw sketches to document the plant's growth and appearance for a visual representation of the data.
Controlling Variables:
1. Ensure that all plants are the same species and similar in size, preferably from the same seed batch.
2. Use the same size pots and potting soil for all plants.
3. Water all plants using the same volume of water each day.
4. Maintain consistent lighting conditions and room temperature.
5. Position the plants equidistant from each other to receive equal amounts of light.
Recording of Results:
Record observations and data in a table or on a worksheet. Include the following details:
- Plant label (A, B, C, D)
- Date of observation
- Height of the plant (cm/inches)
- Number of leaves
- Color of leaves
- Overall appearance
Replication of Results:
To ensure the reliability of the investigation, the experiment should be conducted multiple times, preferably with a larger sample size. Replicating the investigation helps to determine if the results are consistent and reliable. It is recommended to repeat the experiment at least three times using different sets of identical plants. Record observations and data for each replication separately.
Note: The investigation can be modified or expanded to explore additional factors such as different types of plants or varying amounts of fertilizers.
Investigation Worksheet: Testing the Effect of Light on Plant Growth
Title: "Investigating the Influence of Light Intensity on Plant Growth"
Objective: To determine the effect of different light intensities on the growth of plants.
Materials and Apparatus:
- Four potted plants (of the same species)
- Light source(s) with adjustable intensity (e.g., desk lamp, flashlight)
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Notebooks or worksheets for recording observations
- Timer or stopwatch
- Watering can or spray bottle
- Labels or markers for plant identification
Procedure:
1. Setup and Preparation:
a. Select four healthy, similar-sized potted plants and label them A, B, C, and D.
b. Place each plant in a separate location where they can receive different light intensities.
c. Ensure that the plants are receiving other essential factors for growth, such as water and nutrients, equally.
2. Specifying Light Intensity:
a. Define and assign four different light intensities to the plants as follows:
- Plant A: Full sunlight (control group)
- Plant B: High light intensity
- Plant C: Medium light intensity
- Plant D: Low light intensity
3. Conducting the Experiment:
a. Position the light source(s) at an appropriate distance from the plants, ensuring that only the designated plant receives the intended light intensity.
b. Set the timer for a consistent exposure time (e.g., 8 hours) each day.
c. Measure and record the distance between each plant and the light source(s).
d. Water the plants as needed to maintain consistent soil moisture levels.
e. Observe and record any changes in the plants' growth every day for a defined period (e.g., two weeks).
4. Controlling Variables:
a. Keep all other factors constant that may affect plant growth, such as temperature, humidity, and nutrient availability.
b. Ensure that the plants receive the same amount of water and are exposed to the same environmental conditions.
5. Recording Results:
a. Use a notebook or worksheet to record the daily observations for each plant, including measurements such as height, number of leaves, or any visual changes.
b. Note any abnormalities, diseases, or pests affecting the plants during the course of the experiment.
c. Arrange the data in a table or graph format for better visualization and comparison.
6. Replicating the Result:
a. Conduct the same experiment multiple times, using a new set of plants and following the procedure outlined above.
b. Compare the results obtained in different trials to validate the findings and ensure consistency.
Note: This investigation worksheet serves as a general guideline. Researchers may modify or add steps according to their specific requirements and conditions.