Experimenting


 * Experimenting**

Experimenting involves carrying out investigations to test predictions, hypotheses, or prior knowledge and understanding. It focuses on problem solving and decision making and is a link to real-world, authentic learning. Experiments are central to science, technology, and mathematics, but may also be applied to other disciplines, such as the arts, to make connections between concrete and abstract learning. Experimenting requires that students follow an established procedure, such as the scientific method, which is structured so that students hypothesize, investigate, test, explore, manipulate, and organize information and record their observations. Experimenting also encourages students to use cooperative skills effectively in communication when interpreting experimental findings. Experiments enhance student motivation, understanding, and active involvement and can be initiated by the teacher or the student.
 * Description**

The teacher:
 * Method**
 * determines and teaches the specific strategies, skills, or processes that will help students conduct their experiments;
 * ensures that students understand and apply the appropriate scientific inquiry processes;
 * assists students in generating questions from their knowledge, experience, and interests;
 * provides necessary materials and resources;
 * ensures that students follow established safety procedures;
 * recognizes and follows up learning needs and opportunities that result from experimentation.

Experimenting:
 * Considerations**
 * takes into account the appropriate developmental stages of students;
 * takes into account whether students will work through a guided approach or an open-ended format;
 * takes place only when teachers are assured that all students can use materials and equipment safely.


 * Illustrations from the Mathematics Classroom**

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 * Elementary**

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 * Secondary**