5th Grade Scientific Method Videos
Fifth graders at Holladay Elementary have been studying the steps in the scientific method (SOL5.1). One of their teachers, Ms. Haislip, emailed me asking if I could show them how to make a video reviewing the steps. Since the lesson was only one hour, I decided to focus on the most difficult step – identifying the independent and dependent variables (SOL5.1e), then they could add the other steps later. First we got into pairs, and I showed them how to log into WeVideo with their Google accounts. We switched over to Storyboard mode using the three lines menu in the top left corner since that’s easier than Timeline mode. Each pair of students brainstormed ideas for an experiment they’d like to do and typed the title in the Title clip of the storyboard. Next we used the record button to record their intro. They had to introduce themselves and explain the purpose of their experiment. Then they opened a new tab and searched for an image to represent their experiment. They downloaded the image and added it to their video timeline. I showed them how to record a voiceover for the photo, identifying the dependent and independent variables. Students had to convey their understanding that the independent variable is the one that the scientist changes and the dependent variable is the one that responds to the change. Finally the students added a theme with music and published their videos. We posted the links to Google classroom, but you can see some student samples here.