Gather and interpret data resources

Task: Identify the variables for testing how fresh water and salt water affect rusting. Assessment focus: planning a fair test.

This practical task requires students to use methods of separation to separate a mixture of salt, sand, and iron filings. Students explain how they did this and the property of the substance that they used.

Select the correct pair to set up a fair test. Assessment focus: controlling variables.

Task: Students fill in a chart to select the best material for making 6 objects, and give reasons for their answers. Assessment focus: properties of materials related to use.

Students explain how two armoured reptiles' adaptations protect them from being eaten by predators.

Task: Describe on a chart how a duck's features help it to survive, then infer what might happen if these features were changed in some way. Assessment focus: how adaptations aid survival.

Task: Select which state of water applies to a list of places where water can be found. Assessment focus: states of water.

Task: Describe what happens to ice in a glass of water, giving reasons, and explain where water forming on the outside of the glass comes from. Assessment focus: changes of state.

Students construct three different sized parachutes from plastic bags. They then carry out a fair test to see which sized parachute is the most effective. Students answer questions about fair tests, collect and record their results, and make a conclusion.