The method and the results are on the scientific method lab. Do the analysis yourself first, then check the answers below.
Quick answer: The scientific method is a series of steps for testing ideas: ask a question, make a hypothesis, plan a fair test, collect data, analyse it and draw a conclusion. These answers go with the grade 6 science lab on scientific method: the graph, the calculations, the uncertainties and the conclusion explained, for all 8 analysis questions.
These model answers use the sample results. Your own times may differ, but the pattern and the steps of the analysis should be the same: variables, mean, graph, conclusion and improvement.
Independent: wing length. Dependent: fall time. Controlled: paper type, drop height, paper clip, wing width, person timing (any three). Change wing length, measure time.
Question 2 Check a mean
(1.9 + 2.0 + 1.9) ÷ 3 = 5.8 ÷ 3 = 1.93. 1.93 s.
Question 3 Draw the chart
Wing length (cm) goes on the x-axis, mean time (s) on the y-axis with a scale of 0 to 3.0 s in steps of 0.5 s. Label both axes with units and give the graph a title. Use a bar chart or line graph with labelled axes.
Question 4 Pattern
The longer the wings, the longer the fall time: 1.53, 1.93, 2.40 and 2.80 s. Time increases with wing length.
Question 5 Hypothesis
If the wings are longer, then the helicopter will fall more slowly, because longer wings catch more air. The data support the hypothesis.
Question 6 Reliability
Three trials let you spot anomalies and take a mean. The ranges are 0.1 s for 4 cm, 0.1 s for 6 cm, 0.2 s for 8 cm and 0.2 s for 10 cm. 8 cm and 10 cm have the biggest range, 0.2 s.
Question 7 Prediction
The means rise by 0.40, 0.47 and 0.40 s per 2 cm, so about 0.4 s more: 2.80 + 0.4 = 3.2 s. About 3.2 s, but the confidence is low because 12 cm was not tested.
Question 8 Improve the lab
Use a photo gate or video to time the fall, repeat five times, and release the helicopter with a clamp to avoid pushing it. More trials and better timing.
