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3. Experimental Skills (XS)

(a) Observation, Recording and Reporting

The ability to:

(i) make accurate observations and minimise experimental errors;

(ii) report and recheck unexpected results;

(iii) select and use appropriate modes of recording data or observations, for
example, graphs, tables, diagrams;

(iv) record observations, measurements, methods and techniques with due
regard for precision, accuracy, and units;

(v) present data in an appropriate manner, using the accepted convention of
recording errors and uncertainties;

(vi) organise and present information, ideas, descriptions and arguments clearly
and logically in a complete report, using spelling, punctuation and grammar
with an acceptable degree of accuracy; and,

(vii) report accurately and concisely using scientific terminology and conventions
as necessary.

(b) Manipulation and Measurement

The ability to:

(i) follow a detailed set or sequence of instructions;

(ii) use techniques, apparatus and materials safely and effectively; and,

(iii) make observations and measurements with due regard for precision and
accuracy.

(c) Planning and Designing

The ability to:

(i) make predictions, develop hypotheses and devise means of carrying out
investigations to test them;

(ii) plan experimental procedures and operations in a logical sequence within
time allocated;

(iii) use experimental controls where appropriate;

(iv) modify an original plan or sequence of operations as a result of difficulties
encountered in carrying out experiments or obtaining unexpected results;

CXC A16/U2/17 4