How scientists work
I can describe how some scientists control variables and why some scientists do not.
How scientists work
I can describe how some scientists control variables and why some scientists do not.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Scientists who investigate materials often control, measure and change variables.
- Control variables are variables that are kept the same throughout an investigation.
- There are some types of investigations where some, but not all, variables can be controlled.
- Astronomers make observations and look for patterns in their data, however, they cannot control variables in space.
- The 21st century astronomer Maggie Aderin–Pocock makes her observations using instruments on satellites in space.
Keywords
Control variable - Control variables are variables that are kept the same throughout an investigation.
Variables - A variable is something that can be changed, measured or kept the same in a comparative or fair test.
Microorganism - A microorganism is a very tiny living thing.
Antiseptic - An antiseptic is used to prevent the growth of microorganisms.
Astronomer - An astronomer is a scientist who studies the night sky, including stars and planets.
Common misconception
Scientific enquiry is only valid if variables can be controlled and changed.
Teaching slides will explain how some scientist cannot control variables and look for patterns in data and observations instead.
To help you plan your year 5 science lesson on: How scientists work, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 5 science lesson on: How scientists work, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 2 science lessons from the Properties, changes and separating materials unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
None required.
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
are things which you notice using your senses.
are statements describing what you think will happen.
are statements describing what the results mean.
Exit quiz
6 Questions
are often able to control variables in their investigations.
are unable to control variables in their investigations.