Year 8 Science · Unit 4 · Lesson 14

Mini Data Investigation

Foundation Worksheet

Name

Date

Class

Learning Goals

Recall the 9 steps of a mini investigation in the correct order.
Match working scientifically skills to the investigation step where they are most needed.
Recognise how all Unit 4 skills connect in a single investigation.

Warm Up

Order the steps

Number the steps of a mini investigation from 1 (first) to 9 (last). The steps are shuffled — put them in the correct order.

Order (1–9)	Investigation step
	Calculate averages for each IV value.
	Write an if-then-because hypothesis.
	Write a CER conclusion linking claim, evidence and reasoning.
	Design a data table with correct headings and units.
	Formulate a clear, testable research question.
	Select an appropriate graph type and plot the data.
	Identify the independent variable, dependent variable and controlled variables.
	Collect data across three trials for each condition.
	Identify the trend shown in the graph.

Your Turn

Match each term to its definition

Draw a line connecting each working scientifically skill on the left to the investigation step (from the Warm Up) where it is most needed. Or write the matching step number next to each skill.

Working scientifically skill	Step number (1–9)
Writing an if-then-because hypothesis
Identifying outliers in trial data
Choosing a line graph vs bar graph
Deciding which variable to keep constant
Using the CER framework
Adding column headers with units to a table
Describing whether results support the hypothesis
Repeating measurements three times

Show What You Know

1. Why is it important to formulate a research question before writing a hypothesis?

Recall 2 marks

2. Why do scientists collect data across three trials rather than just one trial?

Recall 2 marks

Wrap Up

In one sentence, why does a mini investigation require ALL 9 steps, not just a few?