Investigative Approaches & Methods (OCR A Level Physics): Revision Note
Exam code: H556
Investigative Approaches & Methods
Practical skills are a crucial part of science education
These require investigative approaches and methods to succeed
Some of the key skills that demonstrate proficiency in practical work are as follows:
Using a range of apparatus / instruments including some ICT, such as a datalogger, an app, or a computer
Using apparatus / instruments with confidence and reasonable accuracy
Carrying out steps in a practical in the correct order
Recording readings whilst still observing the apparatus
Being able to ‘fine‐tune’ the apparatus / technique in order to obtain a suitable range of readings
Appreciating the importance of independent, dependent and control variables
Considering factors that may affect the experiment, so need to be controlled e.g. by using a water bath; or solutions of the same concentration
Planning to measure a variable affecting the experiment, such as room temperature, before and after the readings are taken and noting whether it has changed
Examiner Tips and Tricks
Evidence for how you apply investigative approaches and methods to your practical work may come from written work, such as a planning exercise so make sure you keep a well organised practical workbook!Keep in mind, however, this may be ascertained in other ways such as by teachers asking you about control of variable during practical lessons
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