I still teaching my students the scientific method this week, and I actually figured out I think a decent way to go over variables. Variables are factors in an experiment that can be changed. Independent variables are those variables that can be changed or manipulated (some textbooks call them manipulated variables). Dependent variables are those that depend on the independent variable (or respond to the independent variable and that is why some textbooks refer to them as responding variables). For this learning activity I use rocket balloons. The scientific question we attempt to answer is, “What effect does the amount of air in a rocket balloon have on the moving time of the balloon?” Watch the video below to see how it is done.

About the Author

Darren Fix is currently a middle school science teacher and part time teaching consultant. He has an M.A. in education technology and is passionate about the use of technology in the science classroom.

Read more at: http://sciencefix.com/2008/08/26/lesson-balloon-variables/.