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Activity 1.1: Let us think and write
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Write about a similar problem that you tried to solve. What steps did you take?
Problem: My torch (flashlight) suddenly stopped glowing.
Steps taken:
1. Observation: I switched on the torch, but no light came out.
2. Question: Why is the torch not glowing?
3. Guess (Hypothesis): The batteries might have drained completely.
4. Testing: I opened the torch and replaced the old batteries with new ones.
5. Result / Conclusion: The torch turned on and started glowing brightly. My guess was correct.
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Activity 1.2: Let us think and write
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Describe a daily life situation where you think someone was following a scientific method.
Situation: A bicycle repair person finding a puncture in a flat tyre.
1. Observation: The bicycle tyre is flat and has no air.
2. Question: Where is the air leaking from?
3. Guess: There is a small puncture hole in the rubber tube.
4. Experiment/Test: He pumps air into the tube and submerges it section by section in a trough of water.
5. Analysis & Conclusion: Bubbles start rising from one particular spot, confirming the exact location of the puncture, which he then patches up.
Activity 1.3: Let us think and write
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If you have to ask "Why?" about something, what would you ask about? Try to write down how you would attempt to find an answer to your question.
Question: "Why do leaves turn yellow and fall off plants in certain seasons?"
How to find the answer:
1. Observe: Notice which plants shed leaves and in which season (such as autumn/dry season).
2. Guess: It could be due to changes in sunlight, temperature, or water availability.
3. Collect Information & Test: Read science books, discuss with a science teacher, or compare plants kept in sunlight versus shaded areas.
4. Conclude: Find out that less sunlight and colder weather reduce chlorophyll production, causing leaves to change colour and shed to conserve water and energy.
