Investigating the Scientific Method: A Better Black Box
Teach the scientific method through indirect observation
Investigating the Scientific Method – A Better Black Box is an entertaining and highly effective way to teach the scientific method through indirect observation.
Using a mysterious device called the OB-SCERTAINER™, students tackle a central question: “What is the configuration (shape or design) inside the black box?” By collecting data, forming hypotheses, and testing their ideas, students experience science as a process—not just a set of answers.
Why Teachers Love the Investigating the Scientific Method – A Better Black Box
- Authentic scientific thinking: Students practice the same reasoning skills real scientists use.
- High engagement: The mystery of the black box naturally sparks curiosity and discussion.
- Inquiry-based learning: Emphasizes observation, hypothesis formation, testing, and revision.
- Scales for group work: 24 OB-SCERTAINERS™ allow students to work in pairs or small groups.
Resources
Product Details
How the Investigating the Scientific Method – A Better Black Box Works
The kit includes 24 OB-SCERTAINERS™ (two each of 12 different configurations), along with a Teacher’s Guide and lab activity sheets, making it a complete, discussion-rich experience for teaching the scientific method with depth and clarity.
- Introduce the challenge: Students are presented with a sealed black box containing a steel ball.
- Make indirect observations: By tilting, rotating, and gently shaking the OB-SCERTAINER™, students collect data about the internal structure.
- Develop a hypothesis: Based on observations, students propose a model of the internal configuration.
- Test and refine: Continued experimentation allows students to confirm, reject, or refine their hypotheses.
- Model real science: Students learn that scientific conclusions are based on evidence—not direct observation—and may change with new data.
Products being sold are not toys. They are for Educational / Laboratory use only. They are not for use by children 12 and under.
Product Specifications
What's Included:
Teacher’s Guide
Lab Activity Sheets
24 OB-SCERTAINER’sTM (two each of the 12 different configurations)
Warning: California Residents
WARNING: Cancer & Reproductive Harm — www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
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