Which activity would most effectively help students understand the scientific investigation process?

Making paper airplanes and iterating based on results is an effective way to help students understand the scientific investigation process because it actively engages them in hands-on experimentation. This activity allows students to formulate hypotheses about how different designs will perform, test those hypotheses by actually making and flying the airplanes, and then analyze the results to see which designs work best. The iterative process of adjusting their designs based on the outcomes encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, which are essential components of scientific inquiry.

Students learn to observe, measure, and record data about their airplane flights, and they can see firsthand the effects of changing variables, such as wing shape or weight distribution, on performance. This experiential learning approach not only makes the scientific method more tangible but also fosters a deeper understanding of concepts such as experimentation, data collection, and the importance of revision based on evidence.

In contrast, reading a textbook, conducting a survey, or watching a video may provide theoretical knowledge or passive learning but do not engage students in the hands-on experience that is crucial for fully understanding the scientific process.