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Planning a Fair Test

Science investigation for a Grade/Year 7 or 8 classroom, with reading, subject language, speaking and writing.

Grade/Year 7 & 845–60 minutesPrintable

Teacher lesson: Read the short text aloud and model the first task. Students can plan in a language they know well before speaking or writing in English. Use all twelve panels or adjust the pace for your learners.

Teacher Answers Back to Teacher Lessons

1Reading

Two students measure and water similar bean plants for a fair test — Illustration: Testing plant growth.

Before you read:

Look at the title. What do you know about science investigation? Tell a partner one idea.

A class wants to find out whether the amount of water affects bean-plant growth. Each group has two similar plants. They place both plants in the same light and use the same type of soil. One plant receives a small measured amount of water and the other receives a larger measured amount. They record height every few days. The teacher asks students to predict what might happen, but reminds them not to change several conditions at once. If the plants have different light, soil and water, it will be difficult to know which change mattered.

2Vocabulary

Words: predict · variable · measure

Write a short meaning or example. You may use a language you know well first.

predict –

variable –

measure –

3Comprehension

4Language Focus

Use these sentence starters. Change the words to fit your idea.

I predict that because .

We will keep the same and change .

Write one sentence of your own.

5Listen and Note

Listen as your teacher reads the text again. Note two key ideas or facts.

First idea:

Second idea:

Compare your notes with a partner.

6Speaking

Explain to a partner which condition changes and which conditions stay the same.

Use a sentence starter from panel 4. Ask your partner one follow-up question.

Useful questions: “Could you explain that?” “Why do you think so?”

7Try It

Use this skill: How might you use science investigation in another lesson or everyday situation? Give one example and explain it to a partner.

Draw a quick plan or write three key words before you speak.

8Writing

Write a prediction and two steps for a fair plant test.

Plan in a language you know well if it helps. Then write your answer in English.

9Word Study

Choose the correct words from this lesson’s reading.

Word bank: variable · measure

The amount of water is the that changes. Use a ruler to plant height.

10Sentence Builder

Put these words in the right order. Check the capital letter and punctuation.

keep / We must / the same / light and soil / .

11School English

Your group changes both soil and water. Suggest how to make the test fair.

Write a polite question or response you could use at school. Then say it to a partner.

12Exit Reflection ✓

Take a few minutes to reflect.

1. One useful word I learnt in this lesson:

2. One thing I can do in class:

3. One question I still have: