The Task

Students will create a simulation or model using a graphing calculator. They will use digital tools to capture this data (e.g., light from a fluorescent bulb, temperature from a variety of liquids over time, etc.). They will then analyze the data and import it into a spreadsheet. Students will manipulate the data appropriately, construct charts to justify their conclusions, and report the results visually.

Rationale: Real-world scientific process is best accomplished using real-world tools. With the ability of technological tools to capture and manipulate data, students will focus on the understanding rather than the recording of data. Once the results are measured and scenarios understood, the learner will engage in presenting their findings. True learning occurs when explanation of that learning is evident.

IT1—Basic Operations & Concepts

1. Using digital tools to capture images and other information (e.g., temperature, light, sound, etc.) and import them into a computer.

IT2—Social, Ethical & Human Issues

1. Not assessed in this task.

IT3—Productivity Tools

1. Creating a spreadsheet from a blank page, including formulas and functions (MIN, MAX, ROUND), formatting cells (e.g., numeric, monetary, percent, values).
2. Documenting spreadsheets with named cells and comments
   1. Creating a graphical representation appropriate to the numerical data (e.g., scatter plot, x-y)
   2. Manipulating format (e.g., resizing rows and columns, font, colors, hiding grid)
3. Referencing formulas from other worksheets
   1. Using a graphing calculator and grade appropriate applications/functions (e.g., graphing, statistics, tables, equations, matrix).

IT4—Communication

1. 1. Not assessed in this task

IT5—Research, Problem Solving & Decision Making

1. 1. Justifying decisions made, e.g., representing data, formatting, setting up formulas, selecting criteria for search
   2. Creating and using simulations or models, (e.g., spreadsheet to design “what if” scenarios)