The Science and Technology Centerektron.pgcps.org/uploadedFiles/Schools_and_Centers/… · Web...

The Science and Technology Center

AtOxon Hill High School

Research

Practicum

Curriculum

Guide

This document is a guide. The teacher has the right to revise/change the guide as long as adequate notice is given in writing.

THIS ENTIRE DOCUMENT CAN BE FOUND AT (http://www.pgcps.org/~oxonhill/scienceandtech.htm)

Table of Contents

A. Timeline…………………………………………………………….………3

B. Grading Factors………………………………………………………….…3

C. Summer Assignment……………………………………………………….4

D. Definitions and Descriptions…………………………...…………….……8

E. Typing Instructions……………………………………………………….12

F. Chapter Specifications……………………………………………………13

G. Chapter Rubrics………………………………………..…………………18

H. Final Paper Information…………………………………………………..23

I. Writing an abstract……………………………………………………….26

J. Symposium……………………………………………………………….27

K. Progress Check……………………………………………………………29

2

Research Practicum Timeline

Quarter 1a. Summer Assignment

--Finalize mentors and projects the first two weeks of schoolb. Chapter 1 (rough draft)

Quarter 2a. Outline of Chapter 2b. Chapter 2 (3-5 page section with references and proper citations)c. Science Fair forms

--All students must do form 1, 1A, 1B, and Research Plan Attachment. Some projects may need additional forms. All forms can be found at http://www.sciserv.org.

d. Chapter 2 (rough draft)

Quarter 3a. Chapter 3 (rough draft)b. Science Fair backboards and presentations in classc. Chapter 4 (rough draft)

Quarter 4a. Chapter 5 (rough draft)b. Final paperc. Posterd. Research Symposium

***All assignments are due on the dates given; there are NO EXCEPTIONS.

Grading FactorsQuarter 1 Quarter 2

Chapter Assignments 40% Chapter Assignments 40%Statistics/Class work 20% Statistics/Class work 20%Progress Checks 20% Progress Checks 20%Summer Assignment 20% Science Fair Forms 20%

Quarter 3 Quarter 4Chapter Assignments 40% Chapter Assignments 40%Statistics/Class work 20% Statistics/Class work 20%Progress Checks 20% Progress Checks 20%Science Fair 20% Poster/Symposium 20%

3

Summer AssignmentResearch Practicum

Each research practicum student will report to class in the fall with the following five items, which will constitute 20% of the first quarter grade. No “Team” Projects! The SA will be collected on the first day of class! Do not arrive empty handed!

1. Mentor Contact/Email address (info, log, letter, email) 20 pts.2. Project Proposal #1 (1-2 pages) 20 pts.3. Project Proposal #2 (1-2 pages) 20 pts.4. Project Proposal #3 (1-2 pages) 20 pts.5. Evidence of Research (15 references, ref. total 5-10 pages) 20 pts.

All work in RP will be typed and submitted in font Times 12. All graphs, illustrations, and spreadsheets will be integrated into the word processor document. Students should also keep a personal copy and at least two copies on disk. Ideally an RP student begins work on a high quality project over the summer and refines it during the senior year. Students placed in a laboratory may be permitted to work in the lab regularly during school hours if their class schedule permits.1. Mentor contact/Email Address Each RP student must have a mentor and an email address. The mentor is a professional outside of Oxon Hill High School and student’s family. During the summer you must contact a scientist, technician, mathematician, or engineer, in government, business, or university. This does not mean that work cannot be done at school or home; it means you must seek support outside the school. Also, you must have an email address where you can be contacted. See note below.

A. Name, title, organization, mailing address, phone number, and mentor’s e-mail address.B. Log of contacts (time/date/results of phone, mail, fax, email contacts)C. Copy of letter to mentor (this may be a letter of introduction, request for assistance, or thank you letter for

support already received)D. Your email address for school purpose next year

2. Proposed project #1: (this is the one you really want to do!)A. Proposed title of projectB. Hypothesis to be testedC. Very brief procedures including materials, apparatus, data to be collected.

3. Proposed project #2: (a “backup” project if the first cannot be done)D. Proposed title of projectE. Hypothesis to be testedF. Very brief procedures including materials, apparatus, data to be collected.

4. Proposed project #3: (additional “backup” project)G. Proposed title of projectH. Hypothesis to be testedI. Very brief procedures including materials, apparatus, data to be collected.

5. References: (fifteen reference citations/summaries, typed: about ½ page each, five per each of three proposed projects)

Each student will submit (in your own words!) summaries of fifteen references. Store these references on disk so that they may be used directly in the writing of your paper, and in your annotated bibliography, due during first quarter. Unedited printouts of summaries from library, internet or CDROM will NOT be accepted as your work. References must be from professional journals or organizational websites such as CDC or NIH.

References can include some very general sources of information for the academic field of your project, and more specific references that deal with the procedures and individual features and techniques of your project.NOTE: Each student will maintain an e- mail address (this can be a free account, such as Hotmail.com or Yahoo.com, or an account your family already has) used to communicate with the RP teacher and mentor.

4

Think carefully about the image you put forth if you use a humorous, “sexy,” or flippant email address: you will not be taken seriously by potential professional mentors!

NOTE: Some members of previous classes did not graduate tech. Do not let this happen to you! If you are having ANY difficulty, particularly in mathematics, you should review this summer, and seek tutoring in the fall at the first opportunity. Please be very serious about your summer assignment, and call the Science and Tech Office….301- 749- 4328) with any questions you have! I’ll be glad to help, all summer long.

During the month of school each 2006 RP student will meet with a current RP teacher to discuss the summer assignment, before or after school, lunch duty, and first period (after Seniors leave):

Mr. Mrad Mr. Witko Ms. Weaver Mr. Miles

Some of the best projects are “interdisciplinary” (e.g.: bio- engineering, integrated pest management, computer applications in the life or social science, use of GIS in environmental science, photography in astronomy, etc.) you should leave Oxon Hill for the summer with an idea for an RP project and a plan for contacting a mentor. If you are working or volunteering in a lab this summer you should do your best to incorporate your summer work into your project. You may NOT use humans unless you have an M.D. or Ph.D. in the particular field as your mentor.

Good sources for mentors: Local universities, college, and community colleges Local hospital, physicians Veterinary clinics Local museums/parks… Smithsonian, National Zoo, National Aquarium Federal government labs...NRL, ARL, USDA, NIH, NPS, EPA, OSHA, Bureau of Standards, FBI, NOAA,

NASA, NSWC Local agencies…MNCPPC, Humane Society, WSSC, PGCPD OHHS alumni in graduate school Local businesses and business associations Professional associations/Scientific Societies…IEEE, Audubon Society, Sierra Club, Archaeological

Society of Maryland, Mac Users Group, Apple Pi

Some ways to find a project: Modify/Extend/Improve/Challenge a simple project you or someone else has done in the past Combine two or three simple projects into a multidisciplinary project Focus on a single sub problem of a project done by professionals at a university or research lab

Some ways to find a mentor: Direct phone contact (have an idea of your project BEFORE you call….but be willing to modify it to suit

the prospective mentor if receptive!) Letter of introduction (be as specific as possible in your request; same advice as above) Internet search…DO NOT give out your personal information to a person contacted over the internet…

have a current RP teacher or the Science and Tech coordinator check out any respondents for appropriateness

Colleague of someone else’s mentor Contacts at a summer internship Colleague of relative/neighbor/family friend (family/friends SHOULD NOT be mentors, but they can often

help to find a colleague at work who makes an ideal mentor) Referral from a current RP teacher

5

Research RequirementEach Science and Technology Program (STP) senior is required to design, execute and present the results of an individual research project. This senior research project is officially called a Research Practicum (RP) Project. (Note: Although the following information serves a general guideline for all RP Projects, these guidelines are designed with the flexibility to address individual RP Projects that vary in scope and dimension.)

Background:Research Practicum, or “RP”, is a yearlong research, experimentation, writing, and presentation course required of all seniors in the Science and Technology Program. Each student develops a research project and produces a paper presenting the research, procedures, findings, and conclusions. Projects involve several aspects: experimental design, review of professional literature, experimental procedures, statistical presentation of data, and conclusions and recommendations. Each of these is presented in a separate “chapter” of the formal research paper. Each RP student enters his/her project in the Oxon Hill High School Science and Engineering Fair. Winning projects go on to compete in the Prince George’s Area Science and Engineering Fair at Prince George’s Community College. The Grand Prize Winners at the Regional Fair go on to compete at the International Science and Engineering Fair.

Formal Presentation: All RP students present their findings in a power-point presentation and a poster. A group of students is selected to formally present their research in symposium format before an assembly of Research Practicum seniors, 2 current Science and Technology Program juniors, and invited guests.

Additionally audio-visual aides are developed for this presentation. Current STP juniors interview each Research Practicum student in a “poster session”. Award wining project blackboards are displayed while other researchers produce posters to explain their research projects.

Research ProjectEach RP student is required to select a research topic. Develop and execute a research project and produce a formal paper to present their research, procedures, findings, and

conclusions. Projects involve several constructive literary aspects: experimental design, review of the professional literature, experimental procedures, statistical presentation of data, conclusions and recommendations. Each of these is presented in a separate “chapter” of the formal research paper. Outcomes for this course are comprised of two components:

Chapter 1 The Problem and its SettingChapter 2 Background/Review of LiteratureChapter 3 The Research MethodologyChapter 4 The FindingsChapter 5 Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations

6

(1) Development and execution of an in-depth research proposal designed to test a student-selected hypothesis or problem; and

(2) Reports of research finding via a formal research paper, electronic format (i.e. “power point) and an academic poster. Students conduct research in one of the general areas of Engineering Technology, Physical Science, Computer Science or Natural Sciences.

Research Mentor/AdvisorAll RP students are required to establish a formal student-professional relationship with a mentor/advisor in academia, business or civil service. These scientist, engineers, teachers, technicians and/or mathematicians provide guidance, expertise, and facilities in OHHS Science and Engineering Laboratories.

Mentor: Students who have been officially accepted into the RP Internship Program must establish a formal mentor relationship with a professional in academia, business, or civil service. These scientists, engineers, technicians, and mathematicians provide guidance and facilities unavailable at the high school.

Advisors: Students conducting in-school research are under the guidance of a “teacher advisor”. The “teacher advisor” in most cases is the student’s RP teacher.

7

RP Definitions and Descriptions

Research Practicum TeacherThe Research Practicum (RP) Teacher is an OHHS teacher to whom the RP student is

assigned. The RP classroom teacher guides the student through the RP research process. The RP Teacher directs and supervises the time management and quality control of the RP student’s research. The RP teacher steers and follows a student’s RP project and its presentation from start to finish. This involves a variety of activities focused on individual students. This teaching strategy is an alternative to the collective and more traditional classroom delivery method of instruction. The teacher is no longer instructing 25 students on the same topic, but they guide 25 individual students with different projects and challenges toward an outcome of a successful RP Research Project. Teacher’s grading rubric is based on periodic evaluations of the project’s expected time-line progress and quality different research and academic needs.

The RP teacher establishes and monitors criteria and time-line milestones for the RP projects in general. The teacher’s attention to individual student needs traverses a variety of areas. These areas include:

Interviewing each student to establish research area topic. Assisting each student to develop project related professional contact networks. Communicating with student Research Mentors and/or Research Advisors. Reading and correcting RP project chapter drafts and a final paper. Assisting each student with the oral presentation and poster display.

Research Practicum:Research Practicum (RP) is a year-long research course required of all Science and

Technology Program (STP) seniors. RP experiences and instruction pertain to the design, execution, interpretation, and presentation of a highly technical research project.

Independent Research project (IRP)The Independent Research Project is designed, executed and reported by an individual RP

student. Approved Independent Research Projects are primarily conducted on campus in the assigned RP class. A student may enlist a number of “Research Advisors” as content and style resources.

Dependent Research Project (DRP)The Dependent Research Project is a project conducted by a student who leaves the school

during the day to work in collaboration with a scientist, engineer, and/or technician, who are known as the Research Mentor (RM). Approved Dependent Research Projects are conducted off campus at recognized institutions of Higher Learning or in facilities located in the business/industry community.

Research Mentor (RM)The Research Mentor is a practicing scientist, mathematician and/or engineer who is

currently performing quantitative research in fields related to Mathematics, Science and

8

Engineering. The Research Mentor enlists the RP students 32-3 times a week as a Research Intern to assist his/her current research project.

Research Internship (RI)Students may assist a scientist or engineer (a Research Mentor) with part of a research

project. Formal application and approval is first required for an intern to leave the OHHS campus. Students may avail themselves up to two afternoon or morning classroom periods to participate in an off campus internship. Students may assist a scientist or engineer (mentor) with part of a research project. This cooperative yet individual research conducted by the student may satisfy Research Practicum course requirements. Mentor identification/selection and off-campus transportation is the responsibility of the student. The Science and Technology Office can assist with mentor identification and transportation arrangements where possible. The individual research conducted by the student may satisfy Research Practicum course requirements.

Research Advisor (RA)The Research Advisor is a qualified professional practicing in the applied fields of science,

mathematics and engineering as well as other professionals working in fields related to the student’s project. The Research Advisor assists RP students with the practical applications of the Independent Research Project. The Research Advisor is not engaged in conducting research but is willing to advise the student on their project. Research design, statistics, writing style and proofing are among the areas a Research Advisor may be solicited.

Research Proposal: Definition: A research proposal sets forth both the exact nature of the matter to be investigated and a detailed account of the methods to be employed. In addition, the proposal usually contains material supporting the importance of the topic selected and the inappropriateness for the research methods to be employed. Function: The research proposal may function in at least three ways: as a means of communication, as a plan, and as a contract. Elements of a Research Proposal

Study Introduction:Provide background information.

State the importance of the study.

Review related research publications (what others have done).

Set the question or hypothesis:

Provide a rationale for the study.

Present delimitations (describe the population to which generalization of the results might be safely made.)Present limitations (describe the factors that might limit the validity of the study).

Provide Definitions: (define all terms that are systemic language specified to the field of research being proposed.)

9

Explain Procedures:

Identify and describe target population and sampling methods to be used.Present instruments and techniques for measurement.

Present a design for the collection of data.

Present procedures for collecting and recording data.

Develop a backup plan for contingencies (research mentor moves, lab animals die).

Formulate a time line of completion for each chapter of completion.

Research Abstract: The research abstract is a compact narrative that answers the adverb question of “who, what, where, when, and how”. A research abstract is a succinct summary of the RP project. It should be clear enough to convey its purpose without requiring one to read the full text. Abstracts should include the following: a statement of the research problem, procedures, methods, statistics used, results, and the conclusions. Research Design: Formal research is designed (set-up) so that information may be collected in

the form of numerical data. The RP Project must followeither the format for “Experimental Design” or a “Design and Developmental Design. Projects in the Natural Sciences must use the experimental design. Engineering and Computer Science projects may use either the experimental design or a design and development design. “Experimental Design” must:

Contain a dependent and independent variable, must be part of the design (observational and/or theoretical studies are permitted only if the student researcher is on an internship with an approved research mentor). Includes a hypothesis, which can be tested statistically. Focus involves the controlled manipulation, the independent variable, and then measuring the effect on the dependent variable. Include a statistical analysis of data.

o Select a statistical test for significance.o Statistically analyze data for correlation between the independent and

dependent variables (This means that you will determine if a plot of the independent variable vs. the dependent variable yields a linear relationship).

10

“Design and Development” Design must:

Addresses a problem that requires an engineering solution.o Refine of a current solution.o Development of a new solution.o Analyze possible solutions

Include a statistical analysis of data for significance Statistically analyze data for correlation between the independent and dependent variables (Does a plot of the independent variable vs. the dependent variable yield a linear relationship?).

11

Research Practicum Paper: Typing Instructions

The body of the Research Practicum paper will be double spaced. Font “Times” size “12” (or equivalent) will be used throughout.

Text margins will be one inch all around. Text will be left justified only. Beginning of each paragraph will indented ½ inch. No additional spaces will be added between paragraphs.

Pages will be numbered automatically, center at bottom. No hand numbered pages will be acceptable. No pages may be inserted—all tables, graphs, and illustrations should be electronically stored and printed as part of the paper. No tables, illustrations, or graphs will be “Xeroxed” in.

The OHHS sample paper will be used as a guide. Reference citations will be of the “author, date” type and a reference list will follow the entire paper. References will be unnumbered, and alphabetized by author’s last name. As the paper grows, the reference list will be modified. “Ibid.” will not be used.

Two Levels of headings will be used. Each chapter will begin with a centered heading:

The Problem and its SettingBackground/ Review of the Related Literature The Research Methodology The Findings Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations

Within a chapter, sections required by the specifications will be underlined at left:

Footnotes are strongly discouraged. Any material worth mentioning should be in the body of the body.

A sample title page and a guide to the organization of the entire paper will be attached.

12

Don’t use the words“Chapter One” as part of a title or heading . Use heading provided:

Introduction:

This is an example of how a paragraph might begin. Above it is a

heading Indicating that this section of the paper is introductory. Section

headings are providing in the specifications.

Research Practicum Specifications

Chapter One: The Problem and its Setting

Introduction:Describe the overall topic from general to specific, and show where your study fits in.

Purpose:Discuss both the purpose and the importance of this study. Show why there is a need for this research.

Hypothesis:This is a formal statement of the question to be investigated. It should embody a cause and effect relationship which can be statistically accepted or rejected. In the case of a design and development projects it is a statement of what will statistically constitute of the project.

Sub problems: Divide your project into easily accomplished, somewhat independent components. Each may be described and discussed separately.

Limitations:List the parameters of the study. The limitations are twofold:

(1) The experimental limitations are the experimental test groups and conditions to which the project will be confined. List the subjects and tests and describe the testing conditions.

(2) The limitations for the findings are the groups to which your results apply.

Definition and terms and abbreviations : Throughout your paper you should define terms as they are first encountered. A term must be defined for use in your paper when it can be interpreted in more than one way. Abbreviations specific to your filed should appear in full the first time and be abbreviated subsequently. A collections of important and terms and abbreviations should be summarized here.

Closure:Each Research Practicum chapter ends with a closure section. This is a review of what has been stated in the chapter and sums up the status of the project at that point. The closure section pulls together the fragmented components into a whole and provides a point of departure for the following chapter.

13

FYI: Chapter One should be three to five pages (double spaced). The section headings used in this specification sheet should be used in your chapter. This will help the reader follow your writing, and help you follow the specifications.


Chapter Two: Background Review of the Literature

Introduction:Put your study in the context of the overall field you are investigating. Delineate the scope of the overall field of study and then of your particular project within the larger discipline.

Background:This is the main body of your Chapter 2. In it you will provide the reader with necessary background information relating to your project. This section will educate the reader in your specially from general to specific. It will describe the principles, theories, practices, and modern techniques which much be mastered to understand your project.

Early: It should proceed from early studies to recent advances. Only a very brief description of the history of your field and the early pioneers in appropriate.

Recent: The balance of your writing should focus on more recent findings which bear on your research. If your research uncovers differing points of view, provide background information on each.

Current: Your Chapter 2 will conclude with a description of the most recent advances and should summarize the commonly held beliefs of currently publishing researchers.

As you proofread your Chapter, ask yourself “Does this provide the background knowledge necessary to understand my project?” and “Am I identifying the author and source of each place of information I include?”

Closure:Show how your project will continue the research of others described in the chapter. Discuss how the results of your hypothesis testing will add to the body of knowledge just presented.

14

Each piece of information you use write this chapter must be attributed to the source from which you obtained it. These references citations will follow the OHHS format. A variety of sources is required. In the body of your text, references are “cited” by placing a superscript1 after each citation. Later, following your paper, all of the reference will be listed numerically see sample paper. This list will eventually include references cited in all five chapters.

You are expected to cite a minimum of 15 different appropriate references in Chapter 2. The length of Chapter 2 should be from 7 to 10 pages.


Chapter Three: The Research Methodology

Introduction:Describe the research methodology to be used and your reason for this selection. Some examples are: classic experiment with variables and controls, calibration/quality control, feasibility study, design/development/testing, correlation study, and ANOVA (analysis of variance).

Instrumentation and variables: Describe the instruments used to gather your data. Describe your manipulated (independent) variables and the resultant (dependent) variables if appropriate. Describe the units in which variables will be measured. The “instruments” may be any devices used to gather data; this includes traditional scientific apparatus as well as examinations, surveys, questionnaires, polls, and rating scales.

Experimental Procedures: Detail the steps of your procedures. Steps should be clear enough for another researcher

to follow. Include schematic of procedures if appropriate (similar to computer flowchart). Include illustration of instrumentation/set-up if appropriate. Include samples of any tests, questionnaires, polls, rating scales, etc. Give specifics about any chemicals, reagents, or products used in your procedures.

Statistical Procedures: Show the form in which you will gather your data and it will be organized. This should

be in the form of a spreadsheet inserted into the text of your paper. Describe statistical methods to be used. For most experiments minimal statistical

treatment will include mean, median, mode, range, max, min, and standard deviation for each set of data.

Display a sample graph using “test data” if results are not available Propose the statistical test(s) you will use to test your hypothesis or measure success.

The Assumptions: Describe those experimental conditions assumed to be of negligible effect, and those

considered to mutually cancel. Describe the rationale for assuming that a measured value actually reflects an

experimental result (e.g. “It is assumed that lowered red/blue wavelength light transmission readings indicate a higher green algae concentration in the water sample.” Or “It is assumed that higher oil consumption indicates a failure in piston rings or valve guide seals”)

Closure:Briefly review the important points of the chapter and describe the current status of the project.

15

FYI: Chapter Three should be five to seven pages (doubled spaced).The section headings used in this specification sheet MUST be used in your chapter


Chapter Four: The Findings

Introduction: Briefly describe the nature and scope of the data and observations you made. Describe in paragraph form the types of data you collected and give the parameters (number of measurements, range, time line over which the data was collected, etc.) Mention any problems with the data or departures from the procedures and discuss the steps you took to ensure that the data collected was still meaningful.

Findings: (Raw Data):

Each sub problem or type of data must be presented three ways:

First, describe the data giving sample size, mean, median ,mode, range, and standard deviation(if appropriate)

Second, show the data in tabular form (spreadsheet). Third, present an appropriate graph of your data.

The table and graphs should be integrated into the text of your document, NOT inserted into your paper after the fact. Use appropriate labels and call attention to anomalies visible in the display of your data.

Interpretation and Discussion:Using statistical techniques describe the data in terms of confidence. Use the statistics tests from your text to evaluate the data. Will there be enough data to draw a conclusion? Do not deal with the hypothesis until the next chapter, but address the question of reliability of your data from a statistical standpoint.

Closure:Provide a summary of the data and its statistical evaluation up to this point. The findings (Chapter 4) serve as a bridge between the procedures (Chapter 3) and the conclusions and recommendations (Chapter 5). Discuss how any unexpected features in the data will be dealt with, and what procedures will be taken to minimize their impact.

16

Note: In case of experimentation which is ongoing and for which complete data is not available at the Chapter 4 due date, simply reserve space in your spreadsheets for the data, and perform the statistical operations as if the data were complete. When final data becomes available, insert the new values and have the computer recalculate the descriptive statistics. Adjust the text of your chapter and the graphs as necessary. Regardless, you must have three elements of the findings: (1) Description, (2) Table and (3) Graph for each set of data.


Chapter Five: Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations

Introduction:Summarize and discuss the material from each of the four preceding chapters. (Do not say “Chapter One was about…etc.”) The objective of the introduction is to allow the reader to comprehend the entire study without rereading the previous chapters. This introduction will be a miniature version of 1) the problem; 2) review of literature, 3) procedures, 4) findings (may include tables and graphs.

Conclusions:Based on your hypotheses: implications of your findings. Restate each hypothesis and discuss whether the facts (data) support or refute that hypothesis. Use statistical techniques to accept or reject your hypothesis and relate those inferential statistics to the descriptive statistics presented in Chapter Four. Support or rejection of the hypothesis should be a statistical matter, not a matter of opinion or belief.

Discuss the weaknesses or inconsistencies in your data and how they affect the strength of our conclusions.

Discuss any unexpected findings which are unrelated to your hypothesis but of interest. Analyze any new effects, phenomena, or relationships found in your data.

Recommendations: Practical suggestions for implementation of the findings and additional research. Discuss steps which might be taken to resolve difficulties in your project or weaknesses in your data. Discuss to eliminate any problems.

17

Chapter 5 should be three to five pages. Following Chapter 5 will be the reference page which numbers references for the entire paper.

CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN

Format Font “Times” 12 pt. “The Problem and its Setting” 1”margin on each side Page numbers centered at the

bottom Subheading capitalized and

underlined Text double spaced, present/future

tense

.10

0 – absent2 – mentioned4 – minimally correct6 – partially correct8 – mostly correct10 – all correctly used

Introduction to the Problem Links to Big Picture Provides Rationale for study Purpose: what is to be done Need: why it needs to be

done Value and contribution of

the study

.10

0 – absent2 – mentioned 4 – minimal explanation6 – moderate explanation8 – detailed explanation10 – extensive explanation

Purpose Discusses Big Picture Concise, clear, and explicit Informs reader of scope and

magnitude of study

.10


Hypothesis Clear More than one if applicable Sub-hypothesis if applicable If-then format

.10


Sub problems Listed individually Described clearly and completely

.10


Variables and Limitations Variables and Controls – 10

points Size of Group Variety/ Type of Subjects Number of times Repeated Limitations – 10 points

.10

.10

.10


Definitions of Terms and Abbreviations Alphabetical Order Indent where necessary Completed list

.10


Closure Proper review of all sections

.10


LATE PENALTY (10% PER DAY) _________________ TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS / 100Comments:

RESEARCH PRACTICUM--CHAPTER ONE RUBRICTHE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING

18

CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWNFormat

Title 2” from top of page Title Correct 1”margin on each side Page numbers on the bottom

centered 7-10 pages Subheading capitalized and

underlined Text double spaced, past tense

.10


References At least fifteen references No more than three “.org” Each reference a reputable

source, current, & appropriate Citation for each reference Citation correct

.15


Introduction Brief introduction to the chapter. Relay the importance or relevance

of the research

.10


Other Subheadings Sections organized Early, Recent,

Current Information complete & related

to the problem Spelling, punctuation, and

grammar correct

.35


Closure Brief summary to chapter Relates subheadings to the problem

.10


Citations Citation for each reference Citation format correct Citation appropriate & related to

the problem

.20


LATE PENALTY (10% PER DAY) _________________

TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS / 100

Comments:

RESEARCH PRACTICUM: CHAPTER TWO RUBRICBACKGROUND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

19


Title 2” from top of page “The Research Methodology”

Used, Title Correct 1”margin on each side Page numbers center, bottom Subheading capitalized and

underlined Text double spaced, past tense No 1st or 2nd person

.10


Introduction and Closure Research methodology Type of study (examples classic

experiment, correlation study, ANOVA)

Brief review for closure

.10


Instrumentation and Variables All materials appear to be listed &

numbered. Manufacture information provided Instrumentation information

complete (make, model etc) Study site listed & described Variables and Controls Size of Group/Variety/ Type of

Subjects Number of times Repeated

.30


Methods/Procedures Is preliminary study necessary? Procedure complete (Could you

repeat experiment exactly?) Any deviations from procedures

and justification provided?

.30


Statistical Analysis Null Hypothesis Level of Significance Identifies Statistical Test

.10


Assumptions Answers: “What should the

researcher believe is true?” Numbered lists

.10



TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS / 100

Comments:

RESEARCH PRACTICUM-CHAPTER 3 RUBRICTHE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

20


Title 2” from top of page Title Correct “The Findings” 1”margin on each side Page numbers centered at the


underlined Text double spaced, past tense, no

1st or 2nd person

.10


Findings (Raw Data) Only summarized data in

tables Data compete & easy to read. Descriptive statistics included Appropriate figures of

summary data Written explanation for each

table and figure Written explanation thorough

and easy to understand.

.30


Interpretation and Discussion Appropriate Null & Alternative

hypothesis Following included: Name of statistical test Test statistic Number of samples Conclusions based on statistics

.30


Tables and Figures Data summarized in tables Data complete & easy to read Appropriate Figures Figures easy to interpret Tables and Figures labeled

properly/

.30



TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS_____________________ / 100

Comments:

RESEARCH PRACTICUM-CHAPTER 4 RUBRICTHE FINDINGS

21


Title 2” from top of page Title Correct “Summary,

Conclusions and Recommendations”

1”margin on each side Page numbers in center at


underlined Text double spaced, past tense No 1st or 2nd person Three to five pages

.10


Introduction Are the following included: (Each is a brief version of each

chapter) Importance of study Purpose Null & Alternative Hypothesis Brief review of literature Brief description of

experimental design Data collection methods Statistics used Findings

.30


Conclusions Are the following included: What was learned State hypothesis Facts support or refute the

hypothesis Why or how do the facts support

or refute References to tables & figures Was or is this important? Why?

.40


Recommendations & Future Implications Appropriate Recommendation

included Recommendations thorough

(discuss steps to resolve weak data, etc)

Appropriate implications included, implications thorough and well thought

Refer to additional research

.20



TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS_____________________ / 100

Comments:

RESEARCH PRACTICUM-CHAPTER 5 RUBRICSUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

22

Final Paper Checklist and Grading Rubric

Name____________________________________________________ Research Practicum Teacher__________________________________

This must be submitted with the final paper. You will not receive the paperback but only a copy of the rubric, indicating you grade. Parents and a peer who reviewed work prior to submission must sign it. This paper represents 20% of your 4th quarter grade! It is also a program requirement for Science and Tech. Failure to complete and hand in can result in a pulling of your Science and Tech certificate. Peer Parent RP Teacher

Title page (10 pts.) Appropriately done according to format ____ ____ _____

Acknowledgements(10 pts) Appropriate and complete ____ ____ _____

Abstract (10 pts) Up to Date ____ ____ ____ Table of Contents(10 pts) Done according to sample form ____ ____ ____

Format(20 pts) Pagination ____ ____ ____ Past Tense;3rd person ____ ____ ____ Grammar ____ ____ ____ Font and Size ____ ____ ____ Correct Assembly and Order ____ ____ ____ Doubled Spaced ____ ____ ____ Chapter 1(20 pts) Fully Revised ____ ____ ____ Introduction ____ ____ ____ Purpose ____ ____ ____ Hypothesis ____ ____ ____ Sub problems ____ ____ ____ Limitations ____ ____ ____ Terms (Updated) ____ ____ ____ Closure ____ ____ ____

23

Chapter 2 (20 pts) Fully Revised ____ ____ ____ Introduction ____ ____ ____ Early ____ ____ ____ Recent ____ ____ ____

Current ____ ____ ____ Citations ____ ____ ____

Chapter 3 (20 pts) Intro ____ ____ ____ Stat Procedures ____ ____ ____ Exp Procedures ____ ____ ____ Materials ____ ____ ____ Pictures and Diagrams(Integrated in text) ____ ____ ____

Chapter 4 (20 pts) Intro ____ ____ ____ Findings(Raw Data) ____ ____ ____ Interpretation ____ ____ ____ Graphs and Tables(Integrated in text) ____ ____ ____ Statistics ____ ____ ____

Chapter 5 (20 pts) Intro ____ ____ ____ Conclusion ____ ____ ____ Recommendations ____ ____ ____

References(20 pts) “OHHS”Style ____ ____ ____ 15 Minimum ____ ____ ____ Numbered (superscript) ____ ____ ____ Check Sheet Completed (20 points) ____ ____ ___

Parent Signature: _________________________________

Student Signature: ________________________________

Peer Reviewer: __________________________________

24

Title (bold)

Final Paper Presented to

(Teacher’s Name)

Oxon Hill High School

________________________

In Fulfillment of the

Requirements for

Research Practicum

_______________________

By: (Student’s Name)

Date

25

Writing an Abstract

Typing specifications: single-spaced, 12 point Times New Roman font. Abstracts must not exceed one page and 250 words

The abstract should include:a. purpose of the experimentb. procedures usedc. datad. conclusions

**Please limit yourself to describing research YOU have done in the current year.

An abstract should NOT include:a. acknowledgments (includes naming the research institution and/or mentor with which you were working)

b. work or procedures done by the mentor

26

SAMPLEResearch Practicum

Progress Check

Student Name:_________________________________________________________

Project Title:__________________________________________________________

RP Teacher:__________________________________________________________

Mentor Contact:

1. Mentor Name:______________________________________

2. e-mail address:______________________________________

3. Have you contacted you mentor since August 23?__________

4. When? (Date? Attach copy of e-mail)______________

Project:

What have you done with your project since the first week of school?

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Student’s Signature:____________________________________________ _________________ Date

Parent’s Signature:_____________________________________________ _________________ Date

Mentor’s Signature:____________________________________________ _________________ Date

RP Teacher’s Signature:_________________________________________ ________________

27

The Science and Technology Centerektron.pgcps.org/uploadedFiles/Schools_and_Centers/… · Web...

Documents

Transcript of The Science and Technology Centerektron.pgcps.org/uploadedFiles/Schools_and_Centers/… · Web...