North Carolina Science Olympiad

Experimental Design Rules B/C 2013

Revised 9/20/12

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN
1. DESCRIPTION: This event will determine a teams ability to use the steps of the scientific
method in a series of semi-guided tasks
A TEAM OF UP TO: 3 EYE PROTECTION: Indirect vent chemical splash APPROX. TIME: 50 minutes

2. EVENT PARAMETERS: Students must bring ANSI Z87 indirect vent chemical splash goggles
and a writing instrument(s). Students may also bring a timepiece, a ruler, and a nonprogrammable calculator. Chemicals that require other safety clothing will not be used.
3. THE COMPETITION: Teams will be challenged on their knowledge of the scientific method.
Possible topics include:
a. Statement of Problem: Experimental Question
b. Hypothesis
c. Variables:
i. Constants: (Controlled Variables) Factors that are purposefully kept the same
ii. Independent Variable: Factor being manipulated
iii. Dependent Variable: Factor being measured which responds
d. Experimental Control (Standard of Comparison)
e. Materials
f. Procedure, including diagrams
g. Qualitative Observations & Summary of Results
h. Data Tables, including use of significant figures for Division C
i. Graph(s), creating and interpreting
j. Statistics: Div. B: Average (mean), median, mode, range, or drawn in line of best-fit Div. C
also include standard deviation
k. Analysis of Results
l. Possible Experimental Errors including human errors
m. Conclusion
n. Recommendations for Further Experimentation Based on Your Data & Practical
Applications
Sample Questions:
a. Given a data table, create an appropriate style of corresponding graph, then extrapolate 3
more data points.
b. Read a description of an experiment, and identify which variables are the control,
independent, and dependent.
c. Add ice to room temperature water, and record the temperature at 20 second intervals to
create a data table.
d. Given a description of an experiment, identify several sources of error and explain how
they could be avoided
e. Compare results to a hypothesis and explain if the hypothesis was supported or not
4. SCORING: High score wins. Points will be awarded based on the accuracy and completeness of
responses. Predetermined questions will be used for tiebreakers.