FINAL+REFLECTION+ON+PROJECT!

====Doing experimental science I learned a lot more about specific variables in a data collection. I mean, we learned about it before, but these assignments refreshed my memory on how to analyze how one variable affects the other. Also, I learned that in experiments there really aren't any limits (except maybe with materials) but you don't always have to stick to a plan. For example, in the middle of my project I changed the conditions of some of the plants in the dark to see their reactions if they got a little bit of light. I also had a chance to explore the idea of doing a Starch Search, to see if photosynthesis works in the dark. There are a lot of options open to you during experimental science :)==== ====Also during these experiments I learned about using new instruments. First of all, I actually learned a little bit about light sensors- because initally part of my project was going to be to measure the amount of lights in each growing area, to compare them. I did take some samples of the sunlight and dark with the light sensor, and learned how to hook it up and monitor the change in light over time.==== ====My understanding has improved a lot after doing these experimental assignments, and also by researching big ideas. Not only did my big ideas help me understand some questions I came up with while doing the experiments, but also my experiments helped me with my big ideas. Most importantly, for this specific project, I learned a lot about photosynthesis. Not only did I learn about how it happens, like the actual process in a leaf- but I also learned other elements. For example, I got an idea of how this happens in the dark, and how a plant can still grow without light. If I had done a starch search on the plants in the dark I would have been able to see if photosynthesis was occurring in my plants, but I still did learn the actual products of that experiment and what they mean. For the experiment, if I had crushed a leaf and added a few drops of iodine and a blue/green colour appeared I would know starch was present. However, if an orange/yellow colour appeared I would know there was probably no starch, and glucose was not being produced through photosynthesis. That is just one example of the many things I learned. I also learned specific things about how to take care of certain plants (watering, light, etc.) which will be very helpful in the future :)====