Answer 1:
Sure thing!
So, the hard thing about conducting an
"experiment" in a natural laboratory (i.e.,
outside - in the real world!) is that there are
so many different variables that:
(1) we can't control, and
(2) might not even be able to keep track of.
I think your hypothesis is definitely
testable, but I would make sure to be VERY
exact in your methodology. Methodology is
the way that your experiment is designed and
conducted , and it is something that you
CAN control. So, although you might not be
able to control the ocean, the wind, or the sand,
you can control HOW you make your
measurements.
Here is my advice:
(1) pick a time of day that you can visit every
day (within a 15 minute window should be okay, but
if you wanted to be very precise, you should take
your measurement at the EXACT same time, every day).
(2) pick a spot to measure from. Measure ONLY at
that spot. Take a picture of yourself there so you
remember EXACTLY where it is (but also so that you
can put it on your science fair poster!).
(3) use the EXACT SAME measuring tool every time.
So, if you use a measuring tape, use the SAME one
every time. Same thing for a ruler, or whatever
you are using to make your measurements.
(4) take your field notebook with you to record
your raw data right there, in the field! Trust me
- you'll want to make sure you write things down
then and there (otherwise, you might forget!)
I hope this has been helpful. Your science
project sounds like it is shaping up to be very
cool!
Have a great day!
Click Here to return to the search form.
|