Category: Science 11

Natural Selection Critical Thinking Self-Assessment

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Artifact: An image of my group completing this lab

I demonstrated that I can collect and analyze evidence when I effectively performed the lab to the best of my ability, and analyzed the data gathered to draw conclusions about which feeding adaptations provided the best advantage when gathering food. 

I demonstrated that I can connect evidence I collected to big ideas when I made connections between the concept of natural selection and the lab. I observed that the feeding adaptations of the organisms are representative of natural selection, specifically variation. These feeding adaptations would affect the organism’s ability to feed, giving them either an advantage or disadvantage in the struggle for survival. Organisms that are disadvantaged would eventually die off because advantaged organisms would edge them out of the competition for food. 

I demonstrated that I can make predictions based on evidence when I predicted what would happen to each organism in each environment based on how well they did in each environment during the lab. Using the data gathered, I analyzed the feeding adaptations that were most successful, and made predictions as to what new species would develop in these environments. 

Core Competency Self-Assessment

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Critical and Reflective Thinking

Chemistry 11: Acid-Base Titration Lab Data

I demonstrated effective Critical and Reflective Thinking when completing my Acid-Base Titration lab because I was able to reflect on my steps while performing the reaction to improve the overall result, I analyzed the results of the lab to solve the purpose of the lab, and I was able to receive and consider feedback after the lab was completed. 

First, I reflected on my steps while performing the reaction by figuring out where I was making an error when the titration produced a liquid that was a shade of pink that was far too bright. My partner and I were able to conclude that the drops of base that were being added to the acid were too big, so we made sure to add smaller drops of base to the acid in our other trials. A second adjustment we made was to frequently rinse the sides of the beaker with water so that there was no base left on the glass that could interfere with the titration.  

Next, I analyzed the results of the lab to solve the purpose of the lab. Using the data gathered from the experiment, I was able to solve the lab’s problem, which was figuring out the concentration of the hydrochloric acid used. I was able to determine the concentration of the acid, while also stating sources of error that may have impacted the results of the lab. 

Lastly, I received and considered feedback after the lab was completed. While analyzing the data from the experiment, my teacher noticed that my partner and I had made a slight error in how we were reading one of the instruments. This error resulted in the two of us doing more work than was necessary. I will remember this feedback in the future so that I use this instrument accurately if I ever require it in an experiment again. 

To conclude, I demonstrated the Critical and Reflective Thinking competency by reflecting and improving on my steps during this lab, effectively analyzing data gathered to solve the problem given in the lab, and receiving and considering feedback about the lab that will help me in the future.