Much of the universe is hidden in patterns seen by scientists who attempt to understand how things work based on these patterns. For example, in the night sky there is a beautiful cloud of gas and dust called the Crab Nebula that can be seen with a telescope. Scientists believe that it is really the remnants of a star that exploded many years ago. This comes from a careful analysis of the remnants left in the explosion, not in any record of anyone seeing the star itself.
As an apprentice scientist, you need to develop pattern recognition skills. You will be working on a research team studying paths made in iron filings by magnetic marbles.
Research Assignment
Part One: Known Observation
- Set up the experiment with the plastic dish above the tabletop resting on wooden blocks.
- Sprinkle iron filings in an even layer on the plate. Roll a magnetic marble under the plate as shown below.
- Watch as the magnetic marble rolls under the plate. Record your observations.
- Describe what you see when you roll a regular marble under the plate.
- What do the iron filings look like when you place a donut magnet under the plate?
- What do the iron filings look like when you place a steel washer under the plate?
Part Two: Unknown Observation
- Ask your partner to arrange some combination of donut magnet, steel washer, magnetic marbles and regular marbles under the plate. Your partner does not have to use all of the materials mentioned. It is often better to use fewer objects. After your partner places the plate over the materials, try to discover what is under the plate by rolling regular and/or magnetic marbles under the plate. You will get six rolls before you have to guess at what is under the plate. It is a good idea to record in your journal what kind of marble you roll and in what direction, and to note what happens during each roll.
- What are the objects you think are hidden under the plate? Answer by drawing a picture in your journal of the arrangment of the objects. Be sure to label the objects you draw.
- Once you have completed your drawing, ask your partner to lift the plate. Evaluate your success honestly. If you made mistakes, can you understand why? Can you think of things you could have done differently to avoid those mistakes?
- Now it's your turn. Arrange objects under the plate for your partner to explore.
- Both of you should set up at least two different arrangements for each other. If you have time, do more. Make a game out of it.
Journaling: What Did You Learn?
Write at least three sentences that summarize your work today. Be prepared to share your reflections with the class.