Getting Started
- Choose a Topic: Pick an environmental issue that interests you. Consider something affecting Lancaster City
- Research: Start gathering information about your chosen topic. Identify a specific question that can be empirically tested. Use the library, internet, or local experts.
- Plan Your Investigation: Select appropriate tools to collect, record, and analyze data. Plan an investigation that will produce data that serves as evidence for your proposed solution.
- Carry Out Your Investigation: Make a hypothesis that specifies what happens when variables are manipulated. Collect data about the performance of a proposed solution.
- Analyze and Interpret Your Data: Create tables and graphical displays of data to reveal patterns and show relationships between variables. Use mathematical concepts to make sense of observations and interpret results.
- Communicating Your Information: Be ready to share your findings with clear visuals, data,and explanations. Explain the results of your investigation, both orally and in writing, as you use evidence to make and defend claims.
For expectations by grade level and examples visit our handbook.
Project Guidelines for All Grades
- Problem Identification: Projects should focus on an environmental issue relevant to Lancaster City, such as:
- PFAs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and microplastics.
- Air quality issues, including particle pollution.
- Water contamination.
- High lead poisoning rates from consumer products and household items.
- Solution Proposals:Students are encouraged to be creative but realistic in proposing solutions. You can build a model, conduct an experiment, or research potential strategies.
- Presentation Requirements:
- Display recommended
- Any research data should be clearly labeled and explained.
- Models or demonstrations are encouraged but not required.
