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Basic science: understanding experiments
Basic science: understanding experiments

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2.1.1 The experiment

Have you got all the equipment you need? Follow Janet’s instructions in the video (or use your activity booklet [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]  PDF) to conduct the experiment.

Download this video clip.Video player: ou_futurelearn_experiments_vid_1009.mp4
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As with any science experiment, it is important to keep detailed notes and to label your ice tray and glasses so you can keep track of the different parts of your experiment. Your activity booklet has a diagram of the ice cube tray to help you with recording this information.

Last week, you learned that variables are the factors than can be controlled, changed or measured in an experiment. What variables can you think of that might alter these results? Write these down, they might be useful later. Remember, this is an observational experiment – try taking photographs of your experiment. This will help you to remember the results later and allows you to share your results with your fellow learners.

You will have the opportunity to discuss your results in the next section.