Online Resources

Investigation

Assessment

Planning & Conducting Your Investigation

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Defining the Problem

Good research teams begin work by discussing the main research question and developing a list of other questions they need to answer in order to address the overall question. They discover what they know and what they need to know, and they record that information. Teams will update this document during their work because as they learn more, they answer some questions and ask others.

There are different ways to record what your team knows and needs to know. Here are two examples:

• A Know/Need to Know Table
• A Mind Map or Concept Map.

Creating a Work Plan

Good research teams set up a work plan outlining key steps in their work and the team member who will have primary responsibility for helping the team complete that step accurately and on time. This sample student work plan may help your group figure out how to organize your time.

Sharing Your Research

Your research team will prepare some form of a presentation on the work of Fermilab. Discuss with your teacher what forms are acceptable. Once your team has decided on a form, write a proposal for your teacher. When you have your teacher's approval, go to work! Be sure to use the results of your research! Your best ideas may be reviewed by the Fermilab Public Affairs Office. Ask your teacher to submit a description of your presentation to spasero@fnal.gov

Your teacher may have specific plans for forming research teams. Make sure you understand how you will:

Begin your research, sharing ideas with your classmates.
Record your progress.
Publish your results.

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