Summary
Students will sample the different flavors of Skittles, first while blindfolded, and second while both blindfolded and holding their nose. They will use the data to draw conclusions about the effect of the sense of smell on the sense of taste.
TIPC Ratings
The task was designed by the teacher and students had to acquire, synthesize, evaluate and apply the information learned from the lab by reflecting on their hypotheses and drawing conclusions. Students made hypotheses to guide research.
The teacher created an opportunity for group work in the class and designed the communication structures. Students contributed in defined roles.
The task was designed to promote solutions to an authentic task – that of understanding the relationship between taste, smell and sight – and coming to solutions about how the experiment could be improved and more reliable. Learning was student-centered.
Students had the opportunity to synthesize research by making hypotheses, communicate and collaborate within the group and on the final presentation, and apply critical thinking skills in reaching conclusions about the experiment. Personal choice, however was limited.
