Demo Design Packet
Science Demo Project
ECE Curriculum • Unit 7 Summative Assessment
Submission Date: ________________
The Mission
In groups of 3–4, you will design and present a science demonstration aligned with an Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) 3rd grade science standard. Present as if your classmates are 3rd grade students.
Demonstrate a science concept
Kid-friendly explanations
Interactive engagement
Check for understanding
Team Roster (3–4 Members)
1. __________________________
3. __________________________
2. __________________________
4. __________________________
1
Identify Your Standard
Must be an Indiana 3rd Grade Science Standard (e.g., 3.PS.2)
Standard Code
Full Wording of Standard
2
Set Learning Goals
What should 3rd graders know after your demo? (1–2 goals)
A.
B.
3
The Demonstration Plan
Step-by-Step Procedure
Step
Teacher Action / Demo Step
Student Observation
1
2
3
4
5
Materials Checklist
4
Kid-Friendly Explanation
How will you explain the science to a 3rd grader? Avoid jargon; use simple words and concrete examples.
5
Student Engagement Strategy
Select at least two strategies and describe how you will implement them.
Asking Strategic Questions
Predicting Outcomes
Student Volunteers
Kinesthetic Movement
Call and Response
6
Assessment Plan (Required)
Choose one method to check for understanding at the end of your demo.
Exit Ticket
3-Question Quiz
Verbal Q&A
7
Real-World Connection
How does this concept connect to a 3rd grader's everyday life?
Showtime Checklist
- 5 Minute Duration: Stay on track.
- Full Participation: All members speak.
- Visual Aids: Required props/visuals.
Delivery Tips
• Be energetic and engaging!
• Use simple language for 3rd graders.
• Ask questions to keep them thinking.
Success Criteria (100 Points)
| Category | Points | Comments |
|---|
| Standard & Learning Goals | / 15 | |
| Demo Design & Accuracy | / 20 | |
| Clarity of Explanation | / 15 | |
| Engagement Strategy | / 15 | |
| Assessment & Connection | / 15 | |
| Delivery & Participation | / 20 | |
| Total Score | / 100 | |
Demo Model Slideshow
Project Example
The Power
of Air
A Model Science Demonstration for 3rd Grade Students
ECE CURRICULUM • UNIT 7
Meet the Scientists
Modeling the "Team Roster" section
Taylor Smith
Lead Presenter
Jordan Lee
Demo Technician
Casey Rivera
Engagement Specialist
Alex Chen
Safety & Cleanup
Foundation & Goals
Connecting to the Indiana Science Standards
Indiana Standard: 3.PS.2
Identify and describe the types of forces that cause objects to move or change their motion.
Learning Goal A
Students will describe how air pushes in all directions (Atmospheric Pressure).
Learning Goal B
Students will predict what happens when forces (gravity vs. air pressure) compete.
The Toolkit
Modeling the "Materials Checklist"
Glass Jar or Cup
Water (room temp)
Index Card (thick)
Plastic Basin (safety)
Food Coloring (optional)
Paper Towels
The Procedure: Steps 1-3
MODELING THE DESIGN
1
Fill the glass to the very brim
The water should actually "bulge" slightly at the top (surface tension!).
2
Place the index card on top
Ask students: "What do you think will happen if I turn this over?"
3
Press firmly with your palm
Make sure there is a tight seal between the card and the glass.
The Big Reveal
Carefully flip the glass upside down while holding the card.
Slowly let go of the index card!
The "Why"
Modeling the "Kid-Friendly Explanation"
Our Explanation
"Even though we can't see it, air is like an invisible ocean pressing on everything. When we flip the cup, air pressure pushes UP on the card harder than gravity pulls the water DOWN!"
Tip
Use a simple analogy like the "invisible ocean."
Avoid
Using complex words like "atmospheric pressure" without explaining them first.
Real World Connection
Helping 3rd Graders relate to the science
Drinking Straws
When you suck through a straw, you reduce air pressure at the top, and the "invisible ocean" outside pushes the drink up into your mouth!
