The Science and Technology Center At Oxon Hill High School
Research Practicum Curriculum Guide
This document is a guide. The teacher has the right to revise/change the guide as long as adequate notice is given in writing. THIS ENTIRE DOCUMENT CAN BE FOUND AT (http://www.pgcps.org/~oxonhill/scienceandtech.htm)
2 Table of Contents
A. Timeline…………………………………………………………….………3
B. Grading Factors………………………………………………………….…3
C. Summer Assignment……………………………………………………….4
D. Definitions and Descriptions…………………………...…………….……8
E. Typing Instructions……………………………………………………….12
F. Chapter Specifications……………………………………………………13
G. Chapter Rubrics………………………………………..…………………18
H. Final Paper Information…………………………………………………..23
I. Writing an abstract……………………………………………………….26
J. Symposium……………………………………………………………….27
K. Progress Check……………………………………………………………29
3 Research Practicum Timeline
Quarter 1 a. Summer Assignment --Finalize mentors and projects the first two weeks of school b. Chapter 1 (rough draft)
Quarter 2 a. Outline of Chapter 2 b. Chapter 2 (3-5 page section with references and proper citations) c. Science Fair forms --All students must do form 1, 1A, 1B, and Research Plan Attachment. Some projects may need additional forms. All forms can be found at http://www.sciserv.org. d. Chapter 2 (rough draft)
Quarter 3 a. Chapter 3 (rough draft) b. Science Fair backboards and presentations in class c. Chapter 4 (rough draft)
Quarter 4 a. Chapter 5 (rough draft) b. Final paper c. Poster d. Research Symposium
***All assignments are due on the dates given; there are NO EXCEPTIONS.
Grading Factors Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Chapter Assignments 40% Chapter Assignments 40% Statistics/Class work 20% Statistics/Class work 20% Progress Checks 20% Progress Checks 20% Summer Assignment 20% Science Fair Forms 20%
Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Chapter Assignments 40% Chapter Assignments 40% Statistics/Class work 20% Statistics/Class work 20% Progress Checks 20% Progress Checks 20% Science Fair 20% Poster/Symposium 20%
4 Summer Assignment Research Practicum
Each research practicum student will report to class in the fall with the following five items, which will constitute 20% of the first quarter grade. No “Team” Projects! The SA will be collected on the first day of class! Do not arrive empty handed!
1. Mentor Contact/Email address (info, log, letter, email) 20 pts. 2. Project Proposal #1 (1-2 pages) 20 pts. 3. Project Proposal #2 (1-2 pages) 20 pts. 4. Project Proposal #3 (1-2 pages) 20 pts. 5. Evidence of Research (15 references, ref. total 5-10 pages) 20 pts.
All work in RP will be typed and submitted in font Times 12. All graphs, illustrations, and spreadsheets will be integrated into the word processor document. Students should also keep a personal copy and at least two copies on disk. Ideally an RP student begins work on a high quality project over the summer and refines it during the senior year. Students placed in a laboratory may be permitted to work in the lab regularly during school hours if their class schedule permits. 1. Mentor contact/Email Address Each RP student must have a mentor and an email address. The mentor is a professional outside of Oxon Hill High School and student’s family. During the summer you must contact a scientist, technician, mathematician, or engineer, in government, business, or university. This does not mean that work cannot be done at school or home; it means you must seek support outside the school. Also, you must have an email address where you can be contacted. See note below. A. Name, title, organization, mailing address, phone number, and mentor’s e-mail address. B. Log of contacts (time/date/results of phone, mail, fax, email contacts) C. Copy of letter to mentor (this may be a letter of introduction, request for assistance, or thank you letter for support already received) D. Your email address for school purpose next year 2. Proposed project #1: (this is the one you really want to do!) A. Proposed title of project B. Hypothesis to be tested C. Very brief procedures including materials, apparatus, data to be collected. 3. Proposed project #2: (a “backup” project if the first cannot be done) D. Proposed title of project E. Hypothesis to be tested F. Very brief procedures including materials, apparatus, data to be collected. 4. Proposed project #3: (additional “backup” project) G. Proposed title of project H. Hypothesis to be tested I. Very brief procedures including materials, apparatus, data to be collected. 5. References: (fifteen reference citations/summaries, typed: about ½ page each, five per each of three proposed projects)
Each student will submit (in your own words!) summaries of fifteen references. Store these references on disk so that they may be used directly in the writing of your paper, and in your annotated bibliography, due during first quarter. Unedited printouts of summaries from library, internet or CDROM will NOT be accepted as your work. References must be from professional journals or organizational websites such as CDC or NIH.
References can include some very general sources of information for the academic field of your project, and more specific references that deal with the procedures and individual features and techniques of your project. NOTE: Each student will maintain an e- mail address (this can be a free account, such as Hotmail.com or Yahoo.com, or an account your family already has) used to communicate with the RP teacher and mentor.
5 Think carefully about the image you put forth if you use a humorous, “sexy,” or flippant email address: you will not be taken seriously by potential professional mentors!
NOTE: Some members of previous classes did not graduate tech. Do not let this happen to you! If you are having ANY difficulty, particularly in mathematics, you should review this summer, and seek tutoring in the fall at the first opportunity. Please be very serious about your summer assignment, and call the Science and Tech Office….301- 749- 4328) with any questions you have! I’ll be glad to help, all summer long.
During the month of school each 2006 RP student will meet with a current RP teacher to discuss the summer assignment, before or after school, lunch duty, and first period (after Seniors leave):
Mr. Mrad Mr. Witko Ms. Weaver Mr. Miles
Some of the best projects are “interdisciplinary” (e.g.: bio- engineering, integrated pest management, computer applications in the life or social science, use of GIS in environmental science, photography in astronomy, etc.) you should leave Oxon Hill for the summer with an idea for an RP project and a plan for contacting a mentor. If you are working or volunteering in a lab this summer you should do your best to incorporate your summer work into your project. You may NOT use humans unless you have an M.D. or Ph.D. in the particular field as your mentor.
Good sources for mentors: Local universities, college, and community colleges Local hospital, physicians Veterinary clinics Local museums/parks… Smithsonian, National Zoo, National Aquarium Federal government labs...NRL, ARL, USDA, NIH, NPS, EPA, OSHA, Bureau of Standards, FBI, NOAA, NASA, NSWC Local agencies…MNCPPC, Humane Society, WSSC, PGCPD OHHS alumni in graduate school Local businesses and business associations Professional associations/Scientific Societies…IEEE, Audubon Society, Sierra Club, Archaeological Society of Maryland, Mac Users Group, Apple Pi
Some ways to find a project: Modify/Extend/Improve/Challenge a simple project you or someone else has done in the past Combine two or three simple projects into a multidisciplinary project Focus on a single sub problem of a project done by professionals at a university or research lab
Some ways to find a mentor: Direct phone contact (have an idea of your project BEFORE you call….but be willing to modify it to suit the prospective mentor if receptive!) Letter of introduction (be as specific as possible in your request; same advice as above) Internet search…DO NOT give out your personal information to a person contacted over the internet… have a current RP teacher or the Science and Tech coordinator check out any respondents for appropriateness Colleague of someone else’s mentor Contacts at a summer internship Colleague of relative/neighbor/family friend (family/friends SHOULD NOT be mentors, but they can often help to find a colleague at work who makes an ideal mentor) Referral from a current RP teacher
6 Research Requirement Each Science and Technology Program (STP) senior is required to design, execute and present the results of an individual research project. This senior research project is officially called a Research Practicum (RP) Project. (Note: Although the following information serves a general guideline for all RP Projects, these guidelines are designed with the flexibility to address individual RP Projects that vary in scope and dimension.)
Background: Research Practicum, or “RP”, is a yearlong research, experimentation, writing, and presentation course required of all seniors in the Science and Technology Program. Each student develops a research project and produces a paper presenting the research, procedures, findings, and conclusions. Projects involve several aspects: experimental design, review of professional literature, experimental procedures, statistical presentation of data, and conclusions and recommendations. Each of these is presented in a separate “chapter” of the formal research paper. Each RP student enters his/her project in the Oxon Hill High School Science and Engineering Fair. Winning projects go on to compete in the Prince George’s Area Science and Engineering Fair at Prince George’s Community College. The Grand Prize Winners at the Regional Fair go on to compete at the International Science and Engineering Fair.
Chapter 1 The Problem and its Setting Chapter 2 Background/Review of Literature Chapter 3 The Research Methodology Chapter 4 The Findings Chapter 5 Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations
Formal Presentation: All RP students present their findings in a power-point presentation and a poster. A group of students is selected to formally present their research in symposium format before an assembly of Research Practicum seniors, 2 current Science and Technology Program juniors, and invited guests. Additionally audio-visual aides are developed for this presentation. Current STP juniors interview each Research Practicum student in a “poster session”. Award wining project blackboards are displayed while other researchers produce posters to explain their research projects.
Research Project Each RP student is required to select a research topic. Develop and execute a research project and produce a formal paper to present their research, procedures, findings, and conclusions. Projects involve several constructive literary aspects: experimental design, review of the professional literature, experimental procedures, statistical presentation of data,
7 conclusions and recommendations. Each of these is presented in a separate “chapter” of the formal research paper. Outcomes for this course are comprised of two components: (1) Development and execution of an in-depth research proposal designed to test a student- selected hypothesis or problem; and (2) Reports of research finding via a formal research paper, electronic format (i.e. “power point) and an academic poster. Students conduct research in one of the general areas of Engineering Technology, Physical Science, Computer Science or Natural Sciences.
Research Mentor/Advisor All RP students are required to establish a formal student-professional relationship with a mentor/advisor in academia, business or civil service. These scientist, engineers, teachers, technicians and/or mathematicians provide guidance, expertise, and facilities in OHHS Science and Engineering Laboratories. Mentor: Students who have been officially accepted into the RP Internship Program must establish a formal mentor relationship with a professional in academia, business, or civil service. These scientists, engineers, technicians, and mathematicians provide guidance and facilities unavailable at the high school.
Advisors: Students conducting in-school research are under the guidance of a “teacher advisor”. The “teacher advisor” in most cases is the student’s RP teacher.
8 RP Definitions and Descriptions
Research Practicum Teacher The Research Practicum (RP) Teacher is an OHHS teacher to whom the RP student is assigned. The RP classroom teacher guides the student through the RP research process. The RP Teacher directs and supervises the time management and quality control of the RP student’s research. The RP teacher steers and follows a student’s RP project and its presentation from start to finish. This involves a variety of activities focused on individual students. This teaching strategy is an alternative to the collective and more traditional classroom delivery method of instruction. The teacher is no longer instructing 25 students on the same topic, but they guide 25 individual students with different projects and challenges toward an outcome of a successful RP Research Project. Teacher’s grading rubric is based on periodic evaluations of the project’s expected time-line progress and quality different research and academic needs. The RP teacher establishes and monitors criteria and time-line milestones for the RP projects in general. The teacher’s attention to individual student needs traverses a variety of areas. These areas include: Interviewing each student to establish research area topic. Assisting each student to develop project related professional contact networks. Communicating with student Research Mentors and/or Research Advisors. Reading and correcting RP project chapter drafts and a final paper. Assisting each student with the oral presentation and poster display.
Research Practicum: Research Practicum (RP) is a year-long research course required of all Science and Technology Program (STP) seniors. RP experiences and instruction pertain to the design, execution, interpretation, and presentation of a highly technical research project.
Independent Research project (IRP) The Independent Research Project is designed, executed and reported by an individual RP student. Approved Independent Research Projects are primarily conducted on campus in the assigned RP class. A student may enlist a number of “Research Advisors” as content and style resources.
Dependent Research Project (DRP) The Dependent Research Project is a project conducted by a student who leaves the school during the day to work in collaboration with a scientist, engineer, and/or technician, who are known as the Research Mentor (RM). Approved Dependent Research Projects are conducted off campus at recognized institutions of Higher Learning or in facilities located in the business/industry community.
Research Mentor (RM) The Research Mentor is a practicing scientist, mathematician and/or engineer who is currently performing quantitative research in fields related to Mathematics, Science and
9 Engineering. The Research Mentor enlists the RP students 32-3 times a week as a Research Intern to assist his/her current research project.
Research Internship (RI) Students may assist a scientist or engineer (a Research Mentor) with part of a research project. Formal application and approval is first required for an intern to leave the OHHS campus. Students may avail themselves up to two afternoon or morning classroom periods to participate in an off campus internship. Students may assist a scientist or engineer (mentor) with part of a research project. This cooperative yet individual research conducted by the student may satisfy Research Practicum course requirements. Mentor identification/selection and off-campus transportation is the responsibility of the student. The Science and Technology Office can assist with mentor identification and transportation arrangements where possible. The individual research conducted by the student may satisfy Research Practicum course requirements.
Research Advisor (RA) The Research Advisor is a qualified professional practicing in the applied fields of science, mathematics and engineering as well as other professionals working in fields related to the student’s project. The Research Advisor assists RP students with the practical applications of the Independent Research Project. The Research Advisor is not engaged in conducting research but is willing to advise the student on their project. Research design, statistics, writing style and proofing are among the areas a Research Advisor may be solicited. Research Proposal: Definition: A research proposal sets forth both the exact nature of the matter to be investigated and a detailed account of the methods to be employed. In addition, the proposal usually contains material supporting the importance of the topic selected and the inappropriateness for the research methods to be employed. Function: The research proposal may function in at least three ways: as a means of communication, as a plan, and as a contract. Elements of a Research Proposal Study Introduction: Provide background information. State the importance of the study. Review related research publications (what others have done). Set the question or hypothesis: Provide a rationale for the study. Present delimitations (describe the population to which generalization of the results might be safely made.) Present limitations (describe the factors that might limit the validity of the study).
Provide Definitions: (define all terms that are systemic language specified to the field of research being proposed.)
10 Explain Procedures:
Identify and describe target population and sampling methods to be used. Present instruments and techniques for measurement. Present a design for the collection of data. Present procedures for collecting and recording data. Develop a backup plan for contingencies (research mentor moves, lab animals die). Formulate a time line of completion for each chapter of completion.
Research Abstract:
The research abstract is a compact narrative that answers the adverb question of “who, what, where, when, and how”. A research abstract is a succinct summary of the RP project. It should be clear enough to convey its purpose without requiring one to read the full text. Abstracts should include the following: a statement of the research problem, procedures, methods, statistics used, results, and the conclusions.
Research Design: Formal research is designed (set-up) so that information may be collected in the form of numerical data. The RP Project must follow either the format for “Experimental Design” or a “Design and Developmental Design. Projects in the Natural Sciences must use the experimental design. Engineering and Computer Science projects may use either the experimental design or a design and development design.
“Experimental Design” must:
Contain a dependent and independent variable, must be part of the design (observational and/or theoretical studies are permitted only if the student researcher is on an internship with an approved research mentor). Includes a hypothesis, which can be tested statistically. Focus involves the controlled manipulation, the independent variable, and then measuring the effect on the dependent variable. Include a statistical analysis of data. o Select a statistical test for significance. o Statistically analyze data for correlation between the independent and dependent variables (This means that you will determine if a plot of the independent variable vs. the dependent variable yields a linear relationship).
11 “Design and Development” Design must:
Addresses a problem that requires an engineering solution. o Refine of a current solution. o Development of a new solution. o Analyze possible solutions Include a statistical analysis of data for significance Statistically analyze data for correlation between the independent and dependent variables (Does a plot of the independent variable vs. the dependent variable yield a linear relationship?).
12 Research Practicum Paper: Typing Instructions
The body of the Research Practicum paper will be double spaced. Font “Times” size “12” (or equivalent) will be used throughout.
Text margins will be one inch all around. Text will be left justified only. Beginning of each paragraph will indented ½ inch. No additional spaces will be added between paragraphs.
Pages will be numbered automatically, center at bottom. No hand numbered pages will be acceptable. No pages may be inserted—all tables, graphs, and illustrations should be electronically stored and printed as part of the paper. No tables, illustrations, or graphs will be “Xeroxed” in.
The OHHS sample paper will be used as a guide. Reference citations will be of the “author, date” type and a reference list will follow the entire paper. References will be unnumbered, and alphabetized by author’s last name. As the paper grows, the reference list will be modified. “Ibid.” will not be used.
Two Levels of headings will be used. Each chapter will begin with a centered heading:
The Problem and its Setting Don’t use the words “Chapter One” as part Background/ Review of the Related Literature of a title or heading . Use heading The Research Methodology provided: The Findings Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations
Within a chapter, sections required by the specifications will be underlined at left:
Introduction:
This is an example of how a paragraph might begin. Above it is a
heading Indicating that this section of the paper is introductory. Section
headings are providing in the specifications.
Footnotes are strongly discouraged. Any material worth mentioning should be in the body of the body.
A sample title page and a guide to the organization of the entire paper will be attached.
13 Research Practicum Specifications
Chapter One: The Problem and its Setting
Introduction: Describe the overall topic from general to specific, and show where your study fits in.
Purpose: Discuss both the purpose and the importance of this study. Show why there is a need for this research.
Hypothesis: This is a formal statement of the question to be investigated. It should embody a cause and effect relationship which can be statistically accepted or rejected. In the case of a design and development projects it is a statement of what will statistically constitute of the project.
Sub problems: Divide your project into easily accomplished, somewhat independent components. Each may be described and discussed separately.
Limitations: List the parameters of the study. The limitations are twofold: (1) The experimental limitations are the experimental test groups and conditions to which the project will be confined. List the subjects and tests and describe the testing conditions. (2) The limitations for the findings are the groups to which your results apply.
Definition and terms and abbreviations : Throughout your paper you should define terms as they are first encountered. A term must be defined for use in your paper when it can be interpreted in more than one way. Abbreviations specific to your filed should appear in full the first time and be abbreviated subsequently. A collections of important and terms and abbreviations should be summarized here.
Closure: Each Research Practicum chapter ends with a closure section. This is a review of what has been stated in the chapter and sums up the status of the project at that point. The closure section pulls together the fragmented components into a whole and provides a point of departure for the following chapter.
FYI: Chapter One should be three to five pages (double spaced). The section headings used in this specification sheet should be used in your chapter. This will help the reader follow your writing, and help you follow the specifications.
14 Research Practicum Specifications
Chapter Two: Background Review of the Literature
Introduction: Put your study in the context of the overall field you are investigating. Delineate the scope of the overall field of study and then of your particular project within the larger discipline.
Background: This is the main body of your Chapter 2. In it you will provide the reader with necessary background information relating to your project. This section will educate the reader in your specially from general to specific. It will describe the principles, theories, practices, and modern techniques which much be mastered to understand your project.
Early: It should proceed from early studies to recent advances. Only a very brief description of the history of your field and the early pioneers in appropriate.
Recent: The balance of your writing should focus on more recent findings which bear on your research. If your research uncovers differing points of view, provide background information on each.
Current: Your Chapter 2 will conclude with a description of the most recent advances and should summarize the commonly held beliefs of currently publishing researchers.
As you proofread your Chapter, ask yourself “Does this provide the background knowledge necessary to understand my project?” and “Am I identifying the author and source of each place of information I include?”
Closure: Show how your project will continue the research of others described in the chapter. Discuss how the results of your hypothesis testing will add to the body of knowledge just presented.
Each piece of information you use write this chapter must be attributed to the source from which you obtained it. These references citations will follow the OHHS format. A variety of sources is required. In the body of your text, references are “cited” by placing a superscript1 after each citation. Later, following your paper, all of the reference will be listed numerically see sample paper. This list will eventually include references cited in all five chapters. You are expected to cite a minimum of 15 different appropriate references in Chapter 2. The length of Chapter 2 should be from 7 to 10 pages.
15 Research Practicum Specifications
Chapter Three: The Research Methodology
Introduction: Describe the research methodology to be used and your reason for this selection. Some examples are: classic experiment with variables and controls, calibration/quality control, feasibility study, design/development/testing, correlation study, and ANOVA (analysis of variance).
Instrumentation and variables: Describe the instruments used to gather your data. Describe your manipulated (independent) variables and the resultant (dependent) variables if appropriate. Describe the units in which variables will be measured. The “instruments” may be any devices used to gather data; this includes traditional scientific apparatus as well as examinations, surveys, questionnaires, polls, and rating scales.
Experimental Procedures: Detail the steps of your procedures. Steps should be clear enough for another researcher to follow. Include schematic of procedures if appropriate (similar to computer flowchart). Include illustration of instrumentation/set-up if appropriate. Include samples of any tests, questionnaires, polls, rating scales, etc. Give specifics about any chemicals, reagents, or products used in your procedures.
Statistical Procedures: Show the form in which you will gather your data and it will be organized. This should be in the form of a spreadsheet inserted into the text of your paper. Describe statistical methods to be used. For most experiments minimal statistical treatment will include mean, median, mode, range, max, min, and standard deviation for each set of data. Display a sample graph using “test data” if results are not available Propose the statistical test(s) you will use to test your hypothesis or measure success. The Assumptions: Describe those experimental conditions assumed to be of negligible effect, and those considered to mutually cancel. Describe the rationale for assuming that a measured value actually reflects an experimental result (e.g. “It is assumed that lowered red/blue wavelength light transmission readings indicate a higher green algae concentration in the water sample.” Or “It is assumed that higher oil consumption indicates a failure in piston rings or valve guide seals”) Closure: Briefly review the important points of the chapter and describe the current status of the project.
FYI: Chapter Three should be five to seven pages (doubled spaced).The section headings used in this specification sheet MUST be used in your chapter
16 Research Practicum Specifications
Chapter Four: The Findings
Introduction: Briefly describe the nature and scope of the data and observations you made. Describe in paragraph form the types of data you collected and give the parameters (number of measurements, range, time line over which the data was collected, etc.) Mention any problems with the data or departures from the procedures and discuss the steps you took to ensure that the data collected was still meaningful.
Findings: (Raw Data):
Each sub problem or type of data must be presented three ways:
First, describe the data giving sample size, mean, median ,mode, range, and standard deviation(if appropriate) Second, show the data in tabular form (spreadsheet). Third, present an appropriate graph of your data.
The table and graphs should be integrated into the text of your document, NOT inserted into your paper after the fact. Use appropriate labels and call attention to anomalies visible in the display of your data.
Interpretation and Discussion: Using statistical techniques describe the data in terms of confidence. Use the statistics tests from your text to evaluate the data. Will there be enough data to draw a conclusion? Do not deal with the hypothesis until the next chapter, but address the question of reliability of your data from a statistical standpoint.
Closure: Provide a summary of the data and its statistical evaluation up to this point. The findings (Chapter 4) serve as a bridge between the procedures (Chapter 3) and the conclusions and recommendations (Chapter 5). Discuss how any unexpected features in the data will be dealt with, and what procedures will be taken to minimize their impact.
Note: In case of experimentation which is ongoing and for which complete data is not available at the Chapter 4 due date, simply reserve space in your spreadsheets for the data, and perform the statistical operations as if the data were complete. When final data becomes available, insert the new values and have the computer recalculate the descriptive statistics. Adjust the text of your chapter and the graphs as necessary. Regardless, you must have three elements of the findings: (1) Description, (2) Table and (3) Graph for each set of data.
17 Research Practicum Specifications
Chapter Five: Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations
Introduction: Summarize and discuss the material from each of the four preceding chapters. (Do not say “Chapter One was about…etc.”) The objective of the introduction is to allow the reader to comprehend the entire study without rereading the previous chapters. This introduction will be a miniature version of 1) the problem; 2) review of literature, 3) procedures, 4) findings (may include tables and graphs.
Conclusions: Based on your hypotheses: implications of your findings. Restate each hypothesis and discuss whether the facts (data) support or refute that hypothesis. Use statistical techniques to accept or reject your hypothesis and relate those inferential statistics to the descriptive statistics presented in Chapter Four. Support or rejection of the hypothesis should be a statistical matter, not a matter of opinion or belief.
Discuss the weaknesses or inconsistencies in your data and how they affect the strength of our conclusions.
Discuss any unexpected findings which are unrelated to your hypothesis but of interest. Analyze any new effects, phenomena, or relationships found in your data.
Recommendations: Practical suggestions for implementation of the findings and additional research. Discuss steps which might be taken to resolve difficulties in your project or weaknesses in your data. Discuss to eliminate any problems.
Chapter 5 should be three to five pages. Following Chapter 5 will be the reference page which numbers references for the entire paper.
18 RESEARCH PRACTICUM--CHAPTER ONE RUBRIC THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN Format Introduction to the Problem Font “Times” 12 pt. 0 – absent Links to Big Picture . 0 – absent “The Problem and its Setting” 2 – mentioned Provides Rationale for study 2 – mentioned . 4 – minimally correct 10 4 – minimal explanation 1”margin on each side 10 Purpose: what is to be done Page numbers centered at the 6 – partially correct Need: why it needs to be 6 – moderate explanation bottom 8 – mostly correct done 8 – detailed explanation Subheading capitalized and 10 – all correctly used Value and contribution of 10 – extensive explanation underlined the study Text double spaced, present/future tense Purpose 0 – absent Hypothesis Discusses Big Picture . 2 – mentioned Clear . 0 – absent Concise, clear, and explicit 10 4 – minimal explanation More than one if applicable 10 2 – mentioned Informs reader of scope and 6 – moderate explanation Sub-hypothesis if applicable 4 – minimal explanation magnitude of study 8 – detailed explanation If-then format 6 – moderate explanation 10 – extensive 8 – detailed explanation explanation 10 – extensive explanation Sub problems 0 – absent Variables and Limitations . 0 – absent Listed individually . 2 – mentioned Variables and Controls – 10 10 2 – mentioned Described clearly and completely 4 – minimal explanation points 4 – minimal explanation 10 6 – moderate explanation . 6 – moderate explanation Size of Group 10 8 – detailed explanation Variety/ Type of Subjects 8 – detailed explanation 10 – extensive Number of times Repeated . 10 – extensive explanation explanation Limitations – 10 points 10
Definitions of Terms and Abbreviations 0 – absent Closure 0 – absent Alphabetical Order . 2 – mentioned Proper review of all sections 2 – mentioned Indent where necessary 10 4 – minimal explanation . 4 – minimal explanation Completed list 6 – moderate explanation 6 – moderate explanation 8 – detailed explanation 10 8 – detailed explanation 10 – extensive 10 – extensive explanation explanation
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19 RESEARCH PRACTICUM: CHAPTER TWO RUBRIC BACKGROUND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN Format References Title 2” from top of page 0 – absent At least fifteen references . 0 – absent Title Correct 2 – mentioned No more than three “.org” 3 – mentioned . 4 – minimally correct 15 6 – minimal explanation 1”margin on each side 10 Each reference a reputable Page numbers on the bottom 6 – partially correct source, current, & appropriate 9 – moderate explanation centered 8 – mostly correct Citation for each reference 12 – detailed explanation 7-10 pages 10 – all correctly used Citation correct 15 – extensive explanation Subheading capitalized and underlined Text double spaced, past tense Introduction 0 – absent Other Subheadings 0 – absent Brief introduction to the chapter. . 2 – mentioned Sections organized Early, Recent, . 7 – mentioned Relay the importance or relevance 10 4 – minimal explanation Current 35 14 – minimal explanation of the research 6 – moderate explanation Information complete & related 21 – moderate explanation 8 – detailed explanation to the problem 28 – detailed explanation 10 – extensive explanation Spelling, punctuation, and 35 – extensive explanation grammar correct
Closure 0 – absent Citations 0 – absent Brief summary to chapter . 2 – mentioned Citation for each reference . 4 – mentioned Relates subheadings to the problem 10 4 – minimal explanation Citation format correct 20 8 – minimal explanation 6 – moderate explanation Citation appropriate & related to 12 – moderate explanation 8 – detailed explanation the problem 16 – detailed explanation 10 – extensive explanation 20 – extensive explanation
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20 RESEARCH PRACTICUM-CHAPTER 3 RUBRIC THE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN Format Introduction and Closure 0 – absent Title 2” from top of page 0 – absent Research methodology 2 – mentioned “The Research Methodology” . 2 – mentioned Type of study (examples classic . 4 – minimally correct 4 – minimally correct experiment, correlation study, 6 – partially correct Used, Title Correct 10 10 1”margin on each side 6 – partially correct ANOVA) 8 – mostly correct Page numbers center, bottom 8 – mostly correct Brief review for closure 10 – all correctly used Subheading capitalized and 10 – all correctly used underlined Text double spaced, past tense No 1st or 2nd person Instrumentation and Variables 0 – absent Methods/Procedures 0 – absent All materials appear to be listed & 6 – mentioned Is preliminary study necessary? . 6 – mentioned numbered. 12 – minimal explanation Procedure complete (Could you 12 – minimal explanation 18 – moderate explanation 30 18 – moderate explanation Manufacture information provided . repeat experiment exactly?) Instrumentation information 24 – detailed explanation Any deviations from procedures 24 – detailed explanation complete (make, model etc) 30 30 – extensive explanation and justification provided? 30 – extensive explanation Study site listed & described Variables and Controls Size of Group/Variety/ Type of Subjects Number of times Repeated Statistical Analysis 0 – absent Assumptions 0 – absent Null Hypothesis . 2 – mentioned Answers: “What should the . 2 – mentioned Level of Significance 10 4 – minimal explanation researcher believe is true?” 10 4 – minimal explanation Identifies Statistical Test 6 – moderate explanation Numbered lists 6 – moderate explanation 8 – detailed explanation 8 – detailed explanation 10 – extensive explanation 10 – extensive explanation
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21 RESEARCH PRACTICUM-CHAPTER 4 RUBRIC THE FINDINGS
CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN Format Findings (Raw Data) Title 2” from top of page 0 – absent Only summarized data in . 0 – absent Title Correct “The Findings” 2 – mentioned tables 6 – mentioned . 4 – minimally correct 30 12 – minimal explanation 1”margin on each side 10 Data compete & easy to read. Page numbers centered at the 6 – partially correct Descriptive statistics included 18 – moderate explanation bottom 8 – mostly correct Appropriate figures of 24 – detailed explanation Subheading capitalized and 10 – all correctly used summary data 30 – extensive explanation underlined Written explanation for each Text double spaced, past tense, no table and figure 1st or 2nd person Written explanation thorough and easy to understand. Interpretation and Discussion 0 – absent Tables and Figures Appropriate Null & Alternative . 6 – mentioned Data summarized in tables . 0 – absent hypothesis 30 12 – minimal explanation Data complete & easy to read 30 6 – mentioned Following included: 18 – moderate explanation Appropriate Figures 12 – minimal explanation Name of statistical test 24 – detailed explanation Figures easy to interpret 18 – moderate explanation Test statistic 30 – extensive explanation Tables and Figures labeled 24 – detailed explanation Number of samples properly/ 30 – extensive explanation Conclusions based on statistics
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TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS______/ 100
Comments:
22 RESEARCH PRACTICUM-CHAPTER 5 RUBRIC SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN CRITERIA POINTS BREAKDOWN Format Introduction Title 2” from top of page 0 – absent Are the following included: . 0 – absent Title Correct “Summary, 2 – mentioned (Each is a brief version of each 6 – mentioned . 4 – minimally correct 30 12 – minimal explanation Conclusions and 10 chapter) Recommendations” 6 – partially correct Importance of study 18 – moderate explanation 1”margin on each side 8 – mostly correct Purpose 24 – detailed explanation Page numbers in center at 10 – all correctly used Null & Alternative Hypothesis 30 – extensive explanation bottom Brief review of literature Subheading capitalized and Brief description of underlined experimental design Text double spaced, past tense Data collection methods No 1st or 2nd person Statistics used Three to five pages Findings Conclusions Recommendations & Future Implications Are the following included: . 0 – absent Appropriate Recommendation . 0 – absent What was learned 40 8 – mentioned included 20 4 – mentioned State hypothesis 16 – minimal Recommendations thorough 8 – minimal explanation Facts support or refute the explanation (discuss steps to resolve weak 12 – moderate explanation hypothesis 24 – moderate data, etc) 16 – detailed explanation Why or how do the facts support explanation Appropriate implications 20 – extensive explanation or refute 32 – detailed included, implications thorough explanation References to tables & figures and well thought 40 – extensive Was or is this important? Why? Refer to additional research explanation
LATE PENALTY (10% PER DAY) ______
TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS______/ 100
Comments:
23 Final Paper Checklist and Grading Rubric
Name______
Research Practicum Teacher______
This must be submitted with the final paper. You will not receive the paperback but only a copy of the rubric, indicating you grade. Parents and a peer who reviewed work prior to submission must sign it. This paper represents 20% of your 4th quarter grade! It is also a program requirement for Science and Tech. Failure to complete and hand in can result in a pulling of your Science and Tech certificate. Peer Parent RP Teacher
Title page (10 pts.) Appropriately done according to format ______
Acknowledgements(10 pts) Appropriate and complete ______
Abstract (10 pts) Up to Date ______
Table of Contents(10 pts) Done according to sample form ______
Format(20 pts) Pagination ______Past Tense;3rd person ______Grammar ______Font and Size ______Correct Assembly and Order ______Doubled Spaced ______
Chapter 1(20 pts) Fully Revised ______Introduction ______Purpose ______Hypothesis ______Sub problems ______Limitations ______Terms (Updated) ______Closure ______
24 Chapter 2 (20 pts) Fully Revised ______Introduction ______Early ______Recent ______Current ______Citations ______
Chapter 3 (20 pts) Intro ______Stat Procedures ______Exp Procedures ______Materials ______Pictures and Diagrams(Integrated in text) ______
Chapter 4 (20 pts) Intro ______Findings(Raw Data) ______Interpretation ______Graphs and Tables(Integrated in text) ______Statistics ______
Chapter 5 (20 pts) Intro ______Conclusion ______Recommendations ______
References(20 pts) “OHHS”Style ______15 Minimum ______Numbered (superscript) ______
Check Sheet Completed (20 points) ______
Parent Signature: ______
Student Signature: ______
Peer Reviewer: ______
25 Title (bold)
Final Paper Presented to
(Teacher’s Name)
Oxon Hill High School
______
In Fulfillment of the
Requirements for
Research Practicum
______
By: (Student’s Name)
Date
26 Writing an Abstract
Typing specifications: single-spaced, 12 point Times New Roman font. Abstracts must not exceed one page and 250 words
The abstract should include: a. purpose of the experiment b. procedures used c. data d. conclusions
**Please limit yourself to describing research YOU have done in the current year.
An abstract should NOT include: a. acknowledgments (includes naming the research institution and/or mentor with which you were working)
b. work or procedures done by the mentor
27 SAMPLE Research Practicum Progress Check
Student Name:______
Project Title:______
RP Teacher:______
Mentor Contact:
1. Mentor Name:______
2. e-mail address:______
3. Have you contacted you mentor since August 23?______
4. When? (Date? Attach copy of e-mail)______
Project:
What have you done with your project since the first week of school?
______
Student’s Signature:______Date Parent’s Signature:______Date Mentor’s Signature:______Date RP Teacher’s Signature:______
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