SAASTE Science

Scientific Method
The best way to learn how the scientific method works is to engage, with an inquisitive attitude, in some scientific research broad enough to ensure that the special methods or techniques do not overshadow the general pattern.(Bunge, M. 1967)...
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Guidelines for Scientific Investigations
How do I go about selecting and initiating a suitable investigation for my learners?

The following is a suggested route for the educator to assist his/her learners in arriving at a suitable investigation:...
 * /Guidelines for Scientific Investigations/

Ideas for class projects

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Radon Project
Measurement of radon in Paarl

Paarl is situated about 60 km from Cape Town and is built on the slopes of a hill consisting granite rock. Granite rock typically has a higher than average uranium content. Radon is a colourless, tasteless and odourless gas that is a decay product in the uranium decay chain in soil and rock.

Radon diffuses easily through cracks in walls and floors and may therefore accumulate in homes with poor ventilation. Radon gas has been found to be a major cause of lung cancer and contribute to at least 15 000 deaths in the United States annually. Radon measurements have been performed previously in Paarl and elevated levels were found in some older homes1. It was therefore proposed that further measurements are needed for a broader study of radon gas concentrations in soil and inside homes in Paarl....


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Road Markings
This project involved ten committed educators from the EMDC, South Metropole (Mitchells Plain and surrounding areas). The objective of the project was to engage their learners in science process skills and empowering them in facilitating investigative skills in their classrooms. Educators from different schools were at different stages within their learning programmes. In order to choose a common topic to advance the project it was decided to select a topic that could easily be done in the different classes, without undue disruption of the learning programmes in progress.


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