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Can Adults Pass a Middle School Science Test?

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Summary

Areas of Science
Difficulty
 
Time Required
Long (2-4 weeks)
*Note: For this science project you will need to develop your own experimental procedure. Use the information in the summary tab as a starting place. If you would like to discuss your ideas or need help troubleshooting, use the Ask An Expert forum. Our Experts won't do the work for you, but they will make suggestions and offer guidance if you come to them with specific questions.

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Abstract

How well do adults understand basic science concepts? This project is a good opportunity for you to test your own scientific understanding as you create a short test to assess knowledge of basic science concepts. Your test will have to brief (probably 10-15 questions, maximum) or you'll have a hard time getting a sufficient number of complete responses. With so few questions, you'll have to think carefully about exactly what comprises "basic science knowledge," and exactly how to word your questions. It may take a few rounds of pilot tests and editing to get it right. For example, consider the following factors:

You should also gather some demographic information from your respondents, like age, educational background, profession, and primary language. Ask yourself how representative your sample population is compared to the general population. For example, could your results be biased if most of the adults who take your test work in science or engineering fields? How do middle school students fare on your test? (Idea from Del Gavio-Kusich, 2003)

Bibliography

Del Gavio-Kusich, O., 2003. "Can Adults Pass a Standard 7th Grade Science Test?" California State Science Fair Project Abstract. Retrieved August 22, 2018, from http://cssf.usc.edu/History/2003/Projects/J1705.pdf.
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Global Connections

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) are a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.

This project explores topics key to Quality Education: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

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General citation information is provided here. Be sure to check the formatting, including capitalization, for the method you are using and update your citation, as needed.

MLA Style

Science Buddies Staff. "Can Adults Pass a Middle School Science Test?" Science Buddies, 22 June 2021, https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/Soc_p016/sociology/can-adults-pass-a-middle-school-science-test. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

APA Style

Science Buddies Staff. (2021, June 22). Can Adults Pass a Middle School Science Test? Retrieved from https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/Soc_p016/sociology/can-adults-pass-a-middle-school-science-test


Last edit date: 2021-06-22
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