Final answer:
Students testing tap water quality use the scientific method, involving hypothesis formulation, designing and performing experiments, data analysis, and procedure revision in alignment with AP® Biology practices. They learn to present data clearly and verify results with peers for consistency.
Step-by-step explanation:
When students design and execute a procedure for testing the qualities of the tap water at their school, they are engaging in scientific inquiry that aligns with the practices emphasized in the AP® Biology course. This type of activity involves several steps that constitute the scientific method.
Initially, students make an observation about the natural phenomenon and read existing science literature. Students then infer and propose a hypothesis based on their observations. Following this, an experiment is designed that will test the hypothesis with measurable results,
which are collected and analyzed including statistical validity when necessary. The experiments may be repeated to ensure accuracy and refine the procedure iteratively until reliable data is obtained. Students must also consider whether they are conducting a qualitative or quantitative analysis.
Finally, they evaluate their data in the context of their hypothesis and prior knowledge.The students' activity would involve learning to work with various pieces of apparatus and would require selecting the appropriate method to present their data, such as through tables, graphs, or equations.
It's important to present data in a structured format that allows others to understand and potentially replicate the experiment, ensuring scientific rigor and transparency. Additionally, students would compare their results with those of their classmates to verify results and ensure data consistency.
The redesign of procedures until accurate data is obtained showcases a core aspect of scientific learning and underscores the importance of being able to justify the selection of the kind of data needed, as per AP® Biology standards 4.1 and 2.21.