Activity to simulate and introduce how scientists observe things they cannot "see"
SIMPLISTIC ILLUSTRATION
Materials
4 foot x 4 foot cover- made of plywood, foamboard, insulation board or any flat material that can support its flat shape when supported in the middle
Test objects - spherical objects (test beams) that can roll and deflect off of unidentified object
Unidentified Objects - Different shapes that will be serve as a "target" 2 -3 inches in height
Procedure:
The teacher will place an unidentified object on a smooth, low friction surface. The cover will be balanced on top of the unknown to effectively hide the unidentified object.
A team of 3-4 students will be instructed to determine the shape of the object underneath. They will be limited to the test objects provided. Emphasis should be on accurate recording of their observations and attention to detail.
There should be a Observation/ Deduction worksheet for each object for each team.
SUGGESTIONS
An easy object, such as circle or square might be the first one tested for each group and then revealed so the team could evaluate their techniques and success before doing several others without immediate feedback.
This activity can be done within a wide range of teacher guidance. Several things can be provided to aid in the activity such as:
1) meter sticks or ramps to provide directional support of test objects
2) Large paper underlayment or temporary markers to assist in directional markings (Vectors)
3) Firing assemblies to regulate test objects
4)Use of Obsertainer Kit from Lab Aids -These can be used as a lead in activity to get students started visualizing what they can't actually observe.