Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I need advice on science fair project experiment. I'm still researching, but so far I have chosen 3 memory tools to test. What is your suggestion on a type of experiment to answer my question and prove my hypothesis?

Question: Which memory tool is most effective in improving memory recall?

Hypothesis: If some students take tests using memory tools and others don't, then the ones who did not use memory tools, will have lower grades on their tests, because using the tools increases your ability to recall information.

I predict that using the easiest to develop and remember memory tool, mnemonic, on tests will give highest grades for most effectively improving memory recall.

Your help today with this is much appreciated. My materials and procedures were due to my teacher on this past Monday, November 17, 2014.

My data, results and conclusion are due on December 10, 2014.

Hi cristiannalls10,

What an excellent idea! It's really interesting and applicable to see what tools can assist in memory.
I think you have a great question and experimental design so far--they're specific, just as they should be. If you'd like additional input on mnemonics, you may find it through this ScienceBuddies project: https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... p044.shtml

For your hypothesis, I'd suggest incorporating which specific memory tool would be best (I believe you said mnemonic?) and then perhaps a VERY brief supporting explanation, but that's not necessary.

Additional searches on the ScienceBuddies page may yield more memory test options for you!

Hope this helps! Good luck, and please post back with more questions.

Thanks,
scibuddyAK

Hi there,

The previous expert already gave you some great advice. I agree that you should provide as much supporting evidence as you can to tell your audience why you hypothesize mnemonics is going to be the most effective tool. In addition, are you going to be testing other memory tools other than mnemonics? If you are, why do you think that those tools are not as good as mnemonics in improving memory recall? Just some other questions to think about as you develop your project, but it sounds very interesting!

Let us know if you have anymore questions.

Connie