Bubble Gum Experiment

1. Bubble Gum Experiment Learning Goals: Students will be able to use the scientific method to solve problems and collect data-based observations. This lab is an inexpensive yet fun way to learn the scientific method instead of just doing notes.

2. The Scientific Method The Scientific Method is a systematic way of figuring something out or solving a problem. When conducting an experiment and reporting on the results, the steps taken when following the Scientific Method are: Purpose Hypothesis Materials Procedure Data Recording Analysis Discussion Conclusion

3. Step #1 – Identify the Purpose The purpose of any lab experiment is to identify what you expect to learn or the reason the experiment is being conducted. For example, the purpose in this lab, is to determine which piece of bubble gum blows the biggest bubble.

4. Step #2 – State your Hypothesis: The hypothesis is simply an educated guess predicting the outcome of the experiment. Take a minute right now and write down a prediction as to the results of today’s experiment.

5. Step #3 – List the Materials The next step in the Scientific Method is to identify all the material you will need to conduct the experiment effectively. In your lab report you should list them and try to do so in the order in which you will need them. Be as specific as possible with respect to quantities or measurements.

6. Materials (con’t) Here are the materials you will need for today’s experiment. 2 small pieces of wax paper 1 meter long piece of string 1 meter stick 2 different pieces of bubble gun labeled A and B

7. Step #4 – Describe the Procedure In this step of the Scientific Method, you need to precisely describe the steps taken to effectively conduct your experiment. The direction should be clear, concise and leave no room for interpretation from the reader. The reader should be able to follow your instructions and recreate the exact same experiment on their own.

8. Procedure (con’t) • Experiment #1 • The person with brand A will chew their piece of gum for 3 minutes. The person with brand B does not begin chewing until all the tests on brand A are completed. • Blow a bubble. • Using a string, your partner will measure the diameter (distance across) the bubble. Put the string on the meter stick to measure the distance in centimeters (cm). • Record the measurement in a data table. Repeat the process for trials 2 and 3. • Find the average bubble size for brand A (add all the distances up and divide by 3) and put in the data chart. • Repeat steps 1-5 with brand B gum.

9. Step #5 – Organize and Record your Data In this step of the Scientific Method, you will collect, organize and record all the data your can during the experiment. Design a data collection table to fit the data you will be investigating.

10. Step #6 - Analysis In this of the Scientific Method you will explain your data and observations in words. This section is usually written in paragraph form. You will examine and explain, patterns, observations and general findings of the experiment. If possible, you will use background knowledge to explain what happened.

11. Step #7 - Discussion In this section of the Scientific Method you will discuss possible problems with the experiment itself. You will give details on parts that went well, things that went wrong and possible ways to improve the experiment You should consider things like variables, experimental error and make suggestions for those who conduct the experiment in the future.

12. Step #8 - Conclusion In this section of the Scientific Method, you need to form a conclusion. Basically, you need to state what you learned and answer the initial question or purpose of the experiment. You can compare your results with your hypothesis (not necessary) and give some insight as to the reasons for your results.