Following directions

Student follows the directions.

Measuring and recording data

Measurements are reasonably accurate and include correct units

Planning

Student organizes the work: (1) observations of the rolling cylinders are sequenced logically, (2) student selects the cylinder with the most predictable motion for Part 2 of the rolling-cylinders task, (3) student records the weights of the objects before attempting to order them in the ordering-by-weight task.

Elegance of approach

Student invents a sophisticated way of collecting, recording, or reporting observations.

Evidence of reflection   

Student comments on observations in ways that indicate that he/she is attempting to find patterns and causal relationships.

Quality of observations

Observations are appropriate to the task, complete, accurate, and have some basis in experience or scientific understanding.

Behavior in the face of adversity

The student seeks help and does not panic if sand or water is spilled or glassware is broken, but proceeds to clean up, get replacements, and continue the task.