THE CONDUCT OF SCIENCE INVESTIGATORY PROJECTSENGR. EDENIA OLIVEROS-LIBRANDAAINHS Science & Technology Department HeadRESOURCE SPEAKEROctober 17, 2008Bacoor, Cavite

There was a father who has a 4-year old kid

One day he went home from his office with a bundle of paper works needed to be finished that night. His wife was not around so he has to take care of the kid and do the paper work at the same time.Unfortunately, the kid did not go to bed early and tried her best to get his fathers attention.

Tired of his girls naughtiness, the father think of the way to keep the child busy. His attention was caught by a magazine where the map of the world was printed.

He cut the pages of the magazine into pieces making it into a jigsaw puzzle, thinking that his child, at her age has never seen the map of the world, will have a hard time in making the puzzle.This will provide time, long enough for him to finish the paper works.

But after 5 minutes the child went back to her father with the puzzle done, the father was amazed by his childs ability.

You have not seen a map of the world, how did you do it? How did you made the puzzle in such a short time? asked the father.Oh, daddy, its very simple, the child answered, at the back of the map of the world is the face of a man. So I put the pieces together following the image of the man.

The future of the world lies on the hand of mankind.

Let us join hands to make this world a better place to live in.

Together we will make the future of the world --- the world entrusted to us by our Creator.

One way of giving our share for the future of the world is through the Conduct of Science Investigatory Projects

But what is Science Investigatory Project

Science Investigatory Project-an investigation about a scientific problem (question)

-a problem-solving process using the scientific method

Why involve yourself to SIP?

IDENTIFICATION OF THE PROBLEMRESEARCH PROBLEM curiosity theoreticalnecessity exploratory time funds facilities

CHOOSING A RESEARCH TOPIC Research problem is the focus of your study for an investigatory project. Identification of a researchable problem is the first step in conducting a research. You must not look very far since most of the problems are within your reach. Facts within your immediate environment are possible sources of ideas from which you can derive a researchable problem. You can identify a problem by doing the following:

consulting, interviewingor observing people visiting facilities and places reading materials observing things

The conduct of a research involves actual work and you must like the task accompanying the study.

A science investigatory project is a study which you carry out independently through your own initiative. Hence, you must be well motivated to involve yourself in this activity.

The choice of topic is a crucial factor in the success of science investigatory project. You have to choose a topic which you are genuinely interested in. Your interest will drive you to go on with your investigation even if there will be some difficulties encountered.

The following could be found in the school ground:

Carabao grass

beetle

piece of wood

Which of those things caught your attention? Simple as it is, a piece of wood could be interesting! Where it came from? What can you do about it? Is there any importance about it? This could be your research topic.

That piece of wood came from a tree. It could be used as fuel for cooking. What possible research topic can be derived from a piece of wood which is used as fuel for cooking?We could study how to maximize the energy coming from wood when cooking, thereby minimizing cutting of trees.

CHOOSING A TOPIC

Your interest counts a lot in selecting what kind of investigation you would like to carry out.

But its not just your interest that counts! The topic you will work on must also be fitted to your abilities, level of knowledge and experience.

The skills you have play a major role in determining what kind of study you will undertake. You cannot perform the necessary experiments if you do not know how to handle the required laboratory materials.

IDENTIFYING THE RESEARCH AREAThe IPSF enjoined you to work on projects along its Fair Divisions and Fields of Study. Look at the example that follows which was derived from the selected research topic presented earlier.

FAIR DIVISION

FAIR 2 APPLIED SCIENCESFIELD OF STUDY

PHYSICSTOPIC

COOKING

(Maximizing Energy of wood)

FAIR DIVISIONS AND FIELDS OF STUDYFair 1: LIFE SCIENCESBotany is a study of plant life such as agriculture, forestry, plant taxonomy, plant pathology, plant genetics, algae, etc.Zoology is a study of animals like animal genetics, animal ecology, animal husbandry, cellular physiology, histology, animal physiology, etc.Microbiology is the biology of microorganisms such as bacteriology, virology, protozoology, fungi, bacterial genetics, yeast, etc.Biochemistry is a branch of chemistry that deals with of life processes like molecular biology, molecular genetics, enzymes, photosynthesis, blood chemistry, protein & food chemistry, hormones, etc.Medicine and Health is the study of diseases and health of humans and animals such as dentistry, pharmacology, pathology, ophthalmology, nutrition, sanitation, pediatrics, dermatology, allergies, speech and hearing, etc.Ecology is the branch of biology that studies the relationships between organisms and their total environment.

Fair 2: APPLIED SCIENCESChemistry is the study of nature & composition of matter and laws governing it such as physical and organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, materials, plastics, fuels, pesticides, metallurgy, soil chemistry, environmental and materials chemistry.Physics is the study of theories, principles and laws governing energy & the effect of energy on matter namely solid state, optics, acoustics, particles, nuclear, atomic plasma, magnetism, quantum mechanics, biophysics, etc.Mathematics is the development of formal logical systems or various numerical algebraic computations and the application of these principles like in calculus, geometry, abstract algebra, number theory, statistics, complex analysis, probability.Computer Science deals with the study and development of computer hardware, software engineering, Internet networking and communications, graphics (including human interface), simulations/virtual reality or computational science (including data structures, encryption, coding & information theory).Engineering Technology; deals with projects that directly apply scientific principles to manufacturing and practical uses such as civil, mechanical, aeronautical, chemical, electrical, photographic, sound, automotive, marine, heating and refrigerating, transportation, environmental engineering, etc.Earth and Space Sciences encompasses geology, mineralogy, physiography, oceanography, meteorology, climatology, astronomy, speleology, seismology, geography, etc.Environmental Science is a study of pollution (air, water and land) sources and their control.

MUSEUMSZOOSSCIENCE CENTERSUNIVERSITIESHOSPITALSPOLICE DEPARTMENTSLIBRARYRESEARCH INSTITUTIONSCHOOLCOMMUNITYPARKSHOME RIVERINTERNETSELECTING A RESEARCH PROJECT RESEARCHING ABOUT THE TOPICSCIENCE MAGAZINESSCIENCE LAB MANUALSSCIENCE FAIR YEARBOOKSNEWSPAPER ARTICLESSCIENCE ENCYCLOPEDIASBOOKSLIBRARIANSTEACHERSVETERINARIANSNURSESDOCTORSPOLICEFRIENDSFAMILYSCIENTISTS/EXPERTSCOMMUNITY/SCHOOL OFFICIALSOTHER PROFESSIONALSSOILWATERAIRPLANTSANIMALS

* Write the topic you wanted to investigate.In the given example, cooking (maximizing energy of wood) was the selected topic for investigation. *From the resource checklist, what procedure will youadopt to know more about it?What resources will you use? Specify names of persons youwill consult and the place you will visit.In this kind of topic the barangay could be visited and a survey could be conducted by interviewing people and observing them.

SUMMARIZING GATHERED INFORMATIONAn insulator is a material that forms a tough resistance barrier to trap heat and keep it inside a container where it belongs. Thus an insulator in a stove minimizes heat loss.

It was observed that most of the people in the barangay use wood chips as fuel. The wood chips are leftovers that are quite abundant because of the many wood factories in the area.

It is convincing that without insulators, the stoves in this barangay are wasting a lot of energy because they allow the energy escape of heat. But which insulator is best to use to lessen loss of heat in stoves made of tin cans?

Here is where investigation comes in. It was thought that if the used empty tin can stove will be equipped with an insulator, it will be able to accomplish cooking in the least period of time and with the least expense of firewood.Thus it was decided to have A Comparative Study of Stoves that Use Different Kinds of Insulators.

DECIDING FOR THE RESEARCH PROBLEM BASED ON THE GUIDELINES

GUIDELINES IN THE SELECTION OF A RESEARCH PROBLEMInvestigators interest in the problemAbilities and special qualification of the researchers to attack the problemTopic is within the level of knowledge and experience of the researchersPractical value and socio-economic significance of the problemParticular needs of the communityAvailability of data about the problem, (what is known about the problem including historical records)Questions and clarifications about the data of the problemGeneration of new informationNovelty and avoidance of unnecessary duplicationTime required to investigate the problemExpenses involved in undertaking the problemAvailability of materials and facilities needed for investigationSafety measures to be undertaken during investigation

JUSTIFYING THE CONTENT OF THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CONTENT OF THE INVESTIGATORY PROJECTS

Apply/ demonstrate scientific principles or attempt to provide new knowledge.

Be a result of continuing or parallel scientific research and investigation and not a copy of any previous research.

Have socio-economic significance and relevance to livelihood development; and

Contribute to the advancement of Science and Technology and the development of the community.

GOOD PROJECT INGREDIENTSthoroughnessinnovation creative ability purpose clarity good data skill safety

FORMULATING THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

How to state the problem?

A problem must be brief and specific. Usually, a problem is stated in question form. But in the case of Science Investigatory Projects, it is stated in declarative form. In the case of the problem above, it is already brief but it is not yet specific. It does not show what kind of stoves will be used and what will be observed in the study. In the statement of the problem we should know what data to collect and why it is worth collecting.

A Comparative Study of Stoves that Use Different Kinds of Insulators Improving the statement of the problem we could have:

The Use of Different Kinds of Insulators in Stoves Made of Tin Cans to Lessen Loss of Heat

A research problem is composed of a major problem and minor problem. The major problem is stated in declarative form as shown earlier.The minor problem can be stated in question form or in declarative form:

Question Form:What is the effect of different insulators in stoves made of tin cans in terms of the amount of saved time and fuel?

Declarative Form:Compare the effect of different insulators in stoves made of tin cans in terms of the amount of saved time and fuel.

Stating a ProblemThe statement of the problem is characterized by the following:

clarityorganizationspecificitywell-defined scopeconcisenessmeasurable

You may ask the following questions to evaluate the statement of the problem:Is the question feasible?Is the question clear?Is the question significant?Is the question ethical?Does the question invite more complex design?

CLARIFYING THE PURPOSE OF THE INVESTIGATIONUse of different kinds of insulators that lessen loss of heat in stoves made of tin cans.Use of a tin can stove without insulator for comparison purposes.Find out how much time, heat and fuel are wasted by stoves with no insulators.Find out the amount of fuel and time saved by stoves with insulators.

For the research problem to be significant one, it must:

help answer a problem/ need of the people/ community/ country;

contribute to the generation of new information;

c. develop or improve an existing process; and

d.contribute to the development of the scientific skills of the student-researcher.

In order to cook, the fast multiplying rural population has extensively stripped forests, plantation, and farmlands of trees, leaving a great portion of the landscape bare.For decades, man has been denuding forests without bothering to replace them. Perhaps one of the least expensive and most immediate practicable solutions would be to have an energy forest in every village. Fast growing trees that can be used as fuel wood can be planted, for example, on village commons, the boundaries of fields, the banks of canals, and along roads.But that is only one side of the picture. It seems that one of the most urgent measures that can have a quick positive impact in lessening the consumption of firewood is the improvement of the efficiency of wood. This can be done through development, demonstration and dissemination of a simple cooker that can burn wood efficiency, and that can be produced from local materials and with local skills.DETERMINING SIGNIFICANCE OF THE INVESTIGATION

DEFINING THE SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE INVESTIGATION The formulated research problem defines the scope and sets the limits of the problem. Defining the scope and setting the limits of the problem help determine the feasibility of doing the actual study.The study was limited to stoves made out of tin cans. The insulators to be used are clay, cement, river sand, and table salt. Acacia wood chips are to be used as fuel. An insulator holder will be produced out of plain G. I. sheet. Results will be compared to find out which of the insulators to be used can control the loss of heat best.

IDENTIFYING THE VARIABLES INVOLVED IN THE STUDYThe VariablesVariables can be classified based on the role they play in the study. If they are the cause, they are called independent variables. They are called independent variables because they can be changed or manipulated by the investigator depending on the nature of the study. On the other hand, dependent variables (responding variables) are the observed effects. They are so called because the values are dependent on the independent variables. Changes made in the independent variable give rise to corresponding variations in the dependent variables. All other variables that may influence the results of the study besides those of the independent variables are termed extraneous variables. They are controlled or maintained constant during the investigation.In the statement of the problem, the variables to be observed and measured must be identified or specified. Some of the variables are manipulated by the investigator, others are maintained constant or controlled. All other variables that may influence the result of the study must be recognized.

In the problem presented the variables involved are: different kinds of insulators, the independent variables; and the time of cooking and the amount of fuel used, the dependent variables. Extraneous variables that will be controlled or maintained constant during the investigation are: the kind of wood chips to be used as fuel (Acasia); and the insulator holder to be produced out of plain G. I. sheet.

FORMULATING THE RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS The Research Hypothesis

A research hypothesis may be stated in several ways, namely:

a. null formb. alternative formc. cause and effect statement

A hypothesis in null form states that there is no significant difference between the results of two conditions being stated.

There is no significant difference between the effects of the use of the different kinds of insulators in stoves in terms of amount of time in cooking.

A hypothesis in alternative form states that there is a significant difference between the results of the two conditions being tested.There is a significant difference between the effects of the use of the different kinds of insulators in stoves in terms of amount of time in cooking.

A cause and effect statement states that if a certain condition (cause) is true, then a supporting observation (effect) occurs.

If there is a difference between the effects of the use of the different kinds of insulators in stoves, the cooking will differ significantly in terms ofamount of time in cooking.

Sample of Research Hypotheses

STATED OBJECTIVE AND/OR PROBLEMWAYS OF FORMULATING THE HYPOTHESESNULLALTERNATIVECAUSE AND EFFECTCompare the effects of the use of the different kinds of insulators in stoves in terms of:1. amount of time in cooking2. amount of fuel used in cookingThere is no significant difference between the effects of the use of the different kinds of insulators in stoves in terms of:1. amount of time in cooking2. amount of fuel used in cookingThere is a significant difference between the effects of the use of the different kinds of insulators in stoves in terms of:1. amount of time in cooking2. amount of fuel used in cookingIf there is a difference between the effects of the use of the different kinds of insulators in stoves, the cooking will differ significantly in terms of:1. amount of time in cooking2. amount of fuel used in cooking

Basic Concepts on Identification of a Research ProblemUndertaking a science investigatory project involves several steps that start with the identification of a research problem. The identification of a research problem is one of the essential steps in scientific method. The following should be considered in choosing a research problem:

CURIOSITY. Your interest and curiosity are very important in choosing a researchable problem. You may select a problem involving materials and experiences that are familiar to you so that you can build knowledge based on previous experiences. You may choose a puzzling phenomenon, wherein the behavior of the test system appears to contradict your experience and definitely arouse your interest since it challenges you to correlate it with familiar events. You may also employ a new material, instrument or method in a project. The updatedness or the novelty of the materials or methods used in a project can excite your curiosity and motivate you to work on a project.

NECESSITY. To heighten your interest in the topic of the project, you have to be convinced about the significance of the project. It can be pointed out in terms of economic consideration. You can be motivated to work well on the project by realizing the possibility of the project generating a method or material that will introduce savings to an institution or to society in general. You will also be encouraged to devote great interest and effort to a project if the usefulness of the project output is highlighted and there is a possibility of generating wealth through it.EXPLORATORY. You must consider if the problem is of sufficient magnitude and scope to fulfill the requirement that has motivated the study. Think if there are enough variables involved in the problem, enough potential results and enough information to write about it.

THEORETICAL VALUE. This is expressed in terms of its impact on existing knowledge. A problem that gives the possibility of a novel finding will greatly motivate you to exert great efforts on the project. You must consider if the problem will contribute to the advancement of a certain field. Aside from the four considerations listed above, you must also consider the workability of a problem. You have to ask yourself if the contemplated study is within the limits and range of your resource and time constraints. Workability depends on the following:

Time. You must be aware that projects operate on a time scale. An amount of time is usually allotted for the completion of a project, and the activities have to be planned and managed well in order to meet the deadline of the project. You must select a topic that could be finished within reasonable period of time. For a mini-research project, an extended time scale is usually involved. Depending on the complexity of the problems and of the activities involved, the project could require a number of weeks, or even some months, for completion. In this case, the activities have to be properly mapped out in order to ensure a timely completion of the project.

Funds. Aside from time, another important constraint in science investigatory projects is the availability of resources financial, material or expert services. All projects require a financial outlay to buy materials and sometimes to pay for services. The cost of the project has to be known at the start of the project. The budgetary requirements of the project have to be listed, and a source of fund has to be identified. It is quite daring to embark on a project without knowing an estimate to the total expenses needed and looking for funds during the course of the project.

Facilities. In choosing a research problem, you have to consider the availability of facilities needed in your investigation. Usually, the school will allow the free use of its physical facilities by students conducting investigatory projects. Some schools even plan out their facilities to enable the students to carry out projects using some advanced instruments. Other schools establish a linkage program with a more endowed institution to ensure access by their students to some equipment.

Criteria for Evaluating the Chosen ProblemThere are five CRITERIA to be assessed (I, II, III, IV, V). Consider the questions asked under each criterion to help you assess the problem presented by the other groups.I. CURIOSITYAre the members of the group interested in the problem area, specific problems and potential solutions? Does it relate to their background? Will they learn useful skills in pursuing it?

II. NECESSITYWill the solution to the problem improve the life of human beings? Are scientists likely to be interested in the results? Will science practices be changed by the outcome?III. EXPLORATORYIs the problem of sufficient magnitude and scope to fulfill the requirement that has motivated the study in the first place? Are there enough variables? Enough potential results? Enough to write about?

IV. THEORETICAL VALUEDoes the problem fill a gap in science? Will others recognize its importance? Will it contribute to advancement in the chosen field in science? Is it publishable?V. WORKABILITYIs the contemplated study within the limit and range of the groups resource and time constraints? Will they have access to the necessary sample and equipment required? Is there a reason to believe that the group will come up with an answer to the problem? Is the required methodology manageable and understandable?

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

RESEARCH DESIGN

Methodology Materials and Facilities

Funds

Timetable

DESIGNING YOUR PROJECT EXPERIMENTAL UNIT - is the chief material used in an experiment. It can be an organism, a device, and a plot in the garden or structure.TREATMENTExperimental Units may be subjected to different treatments according to objectives. Any procedure, the result of which can be evaluated or measured, constitute a treatment.EXPERIMENTAL UNIT: Stoves made of tin cansTREATMENT:Different kinds of insulators clay, cement, river sand, salt

MATERIALS NEEDED:empty tin cansplain G. I. sheet or unfolded tin cansclaycementriver sandsaltacasia wood chips

MATERIALS/ EQUIPMENT: The exact technical specifications, qualities and source of method for all materials to be used should be given. Specifically built equipment to be used in the study must be described and description could be accompanied by a picture.

CONSTRUCTION OF STOVES:

Draw the pattern of the stoves and show the different parts. Cut the materials according to the shape of the pattern. Assemble the inside parts (if welding is not available, hammering and soldering will also do). Construct five stoves. Fill the sides of the stoves except stove 1 (with no insulators).

Stove 1 no insulatorStove 2 clay insulatorStove 3 cement insulatorStove 4 sand insulatorStove 5 salt insulator

Empty tin canopening

Plain G. I. sheet or unfolded tin can

Opening (Big enough to start burning of fuel)Insulator (Thick enough to control the loss of heat)Insulator holder(Plain G. I. sheet or unfolded tin can or smaller can)

SCIENCE RESEARCHBasicApplied

DESCRIPTIVE METHOD It is a careful study, observation and detailed description of living and non-living things and phenomena as they occur in nature. It may also include studies that make comparison and evaluation of science concepts, techniques or procedures.

EXPERIMENTAL METHOD The most scientific and most powerful since it allows control over relevant variable. It has become the best way to conduct research in the most productive manner.

TREATMENT/ GENERAL PROCEDURE The manner and sequence by which each experiment or set of observations will be done and how measurements will be obtained should be described in detail. Avoid using the recipe style when stating step-by-step procedure. Use the narrative form.

Experimental Method is usually utilized for Science Investigatory Projects.

Maria Romina considers experimental method for her science investigatory project.TESTING THE INSULATORS Measure equal amounts of wood chips in kilograms. Fill each stove with equal amounts of wood chips. Boil water (4 glasses with volume of 200 cc per glass) in each stove. Weigh the amount of fuel left after each trial. Repeat the experiment four times and solve for the average. Make a comparison by observing each stove on the time it took for water to boil and the amount of wood chips left after use. Repeat the same procedure in 1) cooking rice and 2) steaming fish (60 grams).

ASSUMPTIONS

In most researches there are always factors that are beyond the control of the researcher. To simplify the experiment and enable researcher to come up with a valid generalization, you may assume certain things to be only approximately true. Such things are called assumptions.In the sample problem we may assume that equal amount of wood chips in kilograms will give equal amount of energy.

EXPERIMENTAL ERRORS

Measurements obtained from experimental vary and, even if experimental units are treated alike, they may still produce different results. These are known as experimental errors.

SOURCES OF ERRORS

The measuring instrument itself.You might use a weighing scale that is not sensitive enough to detail very sound changes in weight.Very few, or limited samples or limited number of trials (or repetitions)Wrong research design.

REPLICATIONS

To reduce if not eliminate experimental errors replications of experimental procedures should be done. Computed averages can be reduced if not totally avoid such errors and mean values can further be subjected to statistical analysis.

FINANCIAL OUTLAY

A large portion of operating expenses would be for the acquisition of the materials to be used. A good estimate of these expenses can be made if the methods and procedures to be adopted are known in detail at the start of the project. A detailed listing of the materials to be purchased can lead to some savings, both in terms of delivery or shipment costs and in time lag for delivery.The project cost will be made low if the needed materials and facilities are available in the school laboratory. However, in order to sustain its budget, the school usually made policies as to which and how much materials should be made available at no cost for the student projects. Unless the school has allocated some amount in its budget for support of student investigatory projects (especially for science fairs), it cannot be expected to give away materials for free to the students.Usually, the school will allow the free use of its physical facilities by students conducting investigatory projects. Some schools even plan out their facilities to enable the students to carry our projects using some advanced instruments. Other schools establish linkage program with a more endowed institution to ensure more access by their students to some equipment.If the project involves the use of a facility that is not available in their school, it is often solved by seeking the help of more-endowed institutions, particularly university, government or industrials laboratories.

PLANNING OUT THE WORK SCHEDULE SCHEDULING FOR YOUR RESEARCH PROJECTPERSONAL SCHEDULE FOR YOUR RESEARCH PROJECT

Add finishing touches to your project.Come to the science fair and present your research.10Prepare for judges interview by asking your teacher or mentor to ask you questions about your research.9Design a mock-up of your display board. Ask a few friends and family members to critique your display and adjust accordingly.Construct your exhibit. Build a backdrop to mount graphs, charts, illustrations, photographs, signs and summary charts.8Write your research paper. Include a title page, table of contents, abstract, purpose of your experiment, results, discussion, conclusion and bibliography.7Analyze your data by drawing conclusion based on the data. Organize the results of your experiments in chart or graph form.6Conduct experiment and collect data.Keep careful, written records of your results in a data book. Record the day and time you make observations. Be as specific as you can about the amount, size, and type of materials, plants or animals you use.5Find a mentor, or seek advice and help from professionals to refine your project: doctors, nurses, researchers, librarians, veterinarians, etc.4Get your science teachers approval for your project. Then gather necessary equipment and start your project.3With your project idea firmly in mind, write the purpose, question, hypothesis, materials needed, and procedures.Show your written materials to your science teacher and discuss your project for approval.2Make sure you understand what you need to do for the science investigatory project. Ask your teacher if you are not certain about any aspect.Use books, encyclopedias, scientific journals and magazines at the library. You can also do a search on the internet on your topic of interest. Keep bibliographic notes on the books and articles where you get your ideas.Visit university departments, science centers, hospitals, museums, zoos, etc., to get ideas. You may also conduct interviews and surveys.1DONE( / ) TARGET DATEWHAT YOU SHOULD BE WORKING ONSTEPS

MAKING A TIMETABLEA TYPICAL GANNT CHART FOR A PROJECT

WEEK123456789101112Identification of Topic/ problemXLiterature SearchXXExperiment DesignXPurchase of MaterialsXPreparation of Set-upXPilot (first) run of experimentsXXSecond run of experimentsXXAnalysis of dataXFirst draft of write-upXFinal draft of write-upX

Project: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF STOVES THAT USED DIFFERENT KINDS OF INSULATORS

TIMETABLE

ACTIVITIESDURATION (in weeks)123456789101112Identification of the problemXLiterature SearchXXPlanning the experimentXX4. Setting of experimental designX5. Procurement of supplies and materialsX6. Construction of stovesX7. Testing the stoves with different insulatorsPilot testingSecond run of experimentXXX8. Data gathering and recording XX9. Analysis of resultsX10. Writing the resultsFirst draftSecond draftXX

WRITING THE RESEARCH PLANRULES TO FOLLOW IN WRITING

RESEARCH PROPOSAL(Before you do your investigation) TECHNICAL REPORT(After you have done your investigation)Tense, voiceFuture tense, passive voiceSample: Equal amount of wood chips will be measured in kilograms.Past tense, passive voiceSample: Equal amount of wood chips was measured in kilograms.Relating the procedureThe procedure should NOT be written as though it were directions or steps to be followed as in a recipe. It should be in narrative form as above.MaterialsMaterials should be mentioned as the researcher relates what he did with them. Materials should not be enumerated in a list.Sample: The insulators used for the stoves were clay, cement, river sand and salt. ResearcherReferredthird personDo not use any personal pronoun as I or We.NumbersIf the sentence starts with a number, the number is spelled out.Sample: Four glasses of water (with volume of 200 cc per glass) was boiled in each stove.

ORGANIZING RESEARCH PLAN

I.Introduction informs the reader about the problem to be studied. It states the rationale of the study and explains briefly why the investigator chose this study to work on. II. Statement of the Problem/ Objectives the nature and scope of the problemshould be presented with clarity. Two types of objectives may be stated:.General Objective this is the main problem as given in the title of the study..Specific Objective this states the purpose of each experiment to be conducted.

III. Significance of the Study the importance of the study is explained in this part.

IV. Scope and Limitations states the coverage and extent of the study.

V. Review of Related Literature sufficient background information should be presented for readers. Only the most important studies and theories written on the topic should be included.

VI. Methodology provides enough details so that it could be followed during theexperiment. Careful writing is critically important because the procedures must be of scientific merit and must be productive.

What is Research?

Scientific Method

Language & Style

Phases of Conducting an Investigatory Project

Time table

Ethics Statement

*-searching for theory, testing a theory or solving a problem

-systematic because it follows certain steps or stages

Research is

Scientific Method identification of the problem

relating this problem with theories

collection of data

analysis and interpretation

drawing conclusions

integration of conclusions into the stream of knowledge

The language expression of a research report is distinctly scientific.

Simplicity, conciseness and straightforwardness are main characteristics of scientific writing.

There is also a need for consistency in the terms used and in the form of expression.

There must be continuity from chapter to chapter & from section to section.

Language and Style

The language and style should reflect the accurate rules in grammar, correct spelling & correct punctuation. Passive voice of the verb should be used.

6. The first person is not used in order that the style does not become personal. The words, I MY, ME & MINE should be avoided.

7. Description of methodology should be in the PAST (except in the proposal). Regarding numbers that begin a sentence, these numbers should always be written as words. In the middle of sentences numbers under 10 should be spelled out as words but 10 above should be written as number.

PHASE I : THE PROPOSAL (20 points)

The proposal is a detailed written plan of how the project will be done. It is like designing an experiment. Since it is yet to be done, the future tense of the verb is used. Phases of Conducting an Investigatory Project

PHASE II: THE INVESTIGATION (20 points)

As soon as your proposal is approved you can now start investigating. Your procedure will be your guide. Keep track of all your observations and data by placing them on a table. Document also your works by photographs, videos, etc.

**PHASE III. THE OUTPUT (60 points)

After conducting the investigation you are now ready to organize your gathered data and present your findings. The output has three levels:

THE WRITTEN REPORT (20 points) A recall of all the things you did to solve your problem. The mode of the verb is in the past tense.

THE EXHIBIT (20 points) It is a showcase of your IP mounted on a board. It must attract viewers so that they may get interested to your IP.

3. THE ORAL DEFENSE (20 points)You will present your work to a panel of judges and they will ask you questions about your project.

Example of the Time Table:

TASKSTARGET DATETEACHERS DEADLINE1. Submission of Problem and TitleJune 202. Submission of Chapter 1July 3

3. Submission of Chapter 2July 17 4. Submission of Chapter 3July 27

5. Investigation PeriodASAP6. Submission of Chapter 4August 11

7. Submission of Chapters 5&6August 25

8. Abstract, Table of Contents, Acknowledgement, Bibliography August 29

9. Oral DefenseSept 3-5

Ethics StatementScientific fraud and misconduct are not condoned at any level of research or competition. Plagiarism, use or presentation of other researcher's work as one's own forgery of approval signature and fabrication or falsification of data will not be tolerated. Fraudulent projects will fail to qualify for the competition.

Parts of a Scientific Research PaperTitle PageAbstractAcknowledgmentTable of ContentsCHAPTER I-INTRODUCTIONA. Background of the StudyB. Statement of the ProblemC. HypothesisD. Significance of the StudyE. Scope and LimitationF. Definition of TermsCHAPTER II- REVIEW AND RELATED LITERATURECHAPTER III-METHODOLOGYA. MaterialsB. ProceduresCHAPTER IV-RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONA. FindingsB. Analysis of DataCHAPTER V- CONCLUSIONCHAPTER VI-RECOMMENDATION Bibliography

Title -it is patterned from the question, however it must contain only the essential words -title of the project must be brief, simple and catchy.

It must contain the following information:Name of the school (including address)Title of the Investigatory Project (UPPER CASE, bold, centered)Names of the researcher (alphabetically arranged, last name, first name, middle initial)Grade and Section Date of SubmissionName of the teacher

Abstract should consist of short, concise descriptions of the problem & its solution. It must be one page only, single-spaced (with a maximum of 250 words), typewritten in Times Roman style; font size 11. Sometimes judges do not have time to study all the details of your work, they only read the abstract, thus its called the SHOW WINDOW of your project.

It must also state the following:Purpose, Procedure used, Results, Conclusion

Acknowledgement

-contains the names of people & agencies that helped in the conduct of the work described.

Table of Contents

-lists the different parts of the whole report with the corresponding page number of each part. The wording & grammar of the chapter titles, heading & title of tables & figures should be consistent.

Introduction -informs the reader of the problem under study. It shows the nature of scope and the problem, its historical & theoretical background & a review of literature relevant to the problem.

Writing the Introduction

State clearly and concisely as possible the objectives of the research paper. These objectives may be preceded by few statements introducing the subjects.

Keep the introduction brief, proportional to the length of the body. For example, the Introduction of a ten-page paper should be no longer than a page.

Background of the Study

-states the rationale of the study. It explains briefly why the investigator chose this study to work on.

Rationale or the underlying principle should answer the following questions:

How did you arrive at that kind of problem?

Why do you like to investigate that kind of problem where in fact there are hundreds of problems out there?

*Statement of the Problem -it is stated as a question/scientific inquiry-the nature & scope of the problem should be presented with clarity

What are the characteristics of a good problem?

It should be of great interest to you.

It should have practical value to you.

It should not be over researched.

It should be within your experience.

It can be finished within an allotted time.

It should not carry legal or moral impediments.

Hypothesis-tentative explanation 3 Types

Null

Alternative

If and Then (to be used in our IP)

Significance of the Study-the importance of the study is explained in this part

Scope and Limitation-states the coverage & extent of the study.

Definition of Terms 2 Types Conceptual-definitions which are indicated in dictionaries Operational-definitions based on how the words were used in the study (to be used in our IP)

CHAPTER II-Review of Related Literature -sufficient background information should be presented for readers to understand & evaluate the results of the present study. Only the most important studies and theories written on the topic should be included.

This contains findings of other studies or investigations similar as yours.

**CHAPTER III-Methodology

-provides enough details so that a competent worker can repeat the experiments.

Materials/Equipment -the exact technical specifications, quantities and source of method of preparation for all materials used should be given. Specifically built equipment used in the study must be described and the description accompanied by a picture.

What are the things you need in solving your problem?

Procedures-explain in details the things you did to solve the problem. The proposal procedure is your guide in making this portion.

What are the orderly steps you are going to do to solve your problem?How are you going to present the data that you will gather? Will it be through graphs or tables?

CHAPTER IV-Results and Discussion

-this maybe divided into sub-sections describing each set of experiment or observations.

Findings -the data maybe presented in full & discusseddescriptively in the text or these maybe summarizedin tables, pictures & graphs. Tables, pictures & graphsshould make the presentation of the data moremeaningful.

Analysis of Data -the interpretation of the findings arediscussed & the significant features shown in the tablefigures or graphs are pointed out.

This shows the data you have gathered arranged or presented in tables or graphs. The data must already speak of the whole thing (general). You must discuss too the results. What do those data mean?

CHAPTER V-Conclusions -the general truth implied or illustrated by the resultsshould be clearly stated. The evidence based on theresults should be summarized for each statement

-this briefly states the immediate answer/findings aboutthe problem

This briefly states the immediate answer/findings about the problem.

CHAPTER VI- Recommendations

-consists of suggestions on future actions such as a new direction of research or further experiments to be performed, practices that might be adapted or discarded in order to attain certain goals or objectives

If others would be doing your project, what would you advise them?

Bibliography-a list of the references used in guiding the research work and writing and paper.

Guidelines in Preparing BibliographiesSeparate these 3 parts (and any additional items of information) with periods followed by two spaces.Give the authors last name first. A second or third author or the name of an editor After the author is listed in normal order. For more than 3 authors, list only the first, followed by et al.Always include the authors name, complete title of the book and the complete publication information.

Indicate an editor or compiler by the abbreviation ed. or comp. or eds. / comps. If there is more than one.

In the publication information for books, you may use the shortened form of publishers names. give the name of the city. Add the state or country only if the city alone would not be familiar to the readers.

7. In publication dates, for periodicals, abbreviate the names of all months except May, June and July. Put the dates in parentheses for periodicals with continuous pagination.

8. Include page numbers for a periodical article. A work that is part of an anthology or collection, or an introduction, preface, foreword or after word do not use p or pp.

References:http://www.geocities.com/egf94/2ndlongtest/ip.html

http://www.freesciencefairproject.com/requirements.htm

http://www.dost.gov.ph

Research Methods (Revised Edition)by Consuelo Sevilla et. al. Rex Publishing House

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EXCELLENCE can be attained if you:

Care more than others think is wise;

Risk more than others think is safe;

Dream more than others think is practical; and

Expect more than others think is possible! Denia

God does not want us to do extraordinary things; He wants us to do ordinary things extraordinarily well!Charles Gore

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