Xuanye Li 10C21 Reflection Paper

1) Identify the specific topics and/or skills that helped you accomplish this performance task.
In terms of Math, quadratic functions helped us to create a function, using chosen points that
would represent our data, though the points are off by a minimal value due to human error. We also drew
a graph of the function using our graphing skills.
Besides math, large amounts of groupwork is required. For one, coordination is needed when
performing the experiment to ensure that we wouldnt have to repeat the experiment and waste water.
We also needed keen eyes and reaction time to get the most accurate data. Lastly, we needed cooperation
when it came to making the actual research paper.
2) What made this task challenging? What are the difficulties that you encountered while doing this task.
One aspect that made this task challenging was the fact that we needed to be very accurate, and
have keen eyes in order to get the ideal data. We needed to fill the bottle at exactly 15 cm high, and to
collect data at exact multiples of 5 seconds. Because it is technically impossible to be exact, the data cannot
be perfectly represented by a function, where, in an ideal situation, it should form a perfect curve. However,
our generated function is very near to the ideal thing, as the points are offset by a very minimal value.
During the actual experiment, we would occasionally have shortage of water, which was really
inconvenient, as we had to walk back and forth to get water. Furthermore, the unexpected rain during the
day of the experiment made it also somehow hard, as we were all cramped together in a place, which was,
for me, a difficulty.
As a group, we needed coordination, which is also a challenge. The timekeeper (me) and the
secretary both had to be extra attentive. The person who would hold the bottle also had to keep it very
steady and horizontal so that the secretary could see properly. If we missed one, we would have to start
all over. Luckily, we were very attentive, so we didnt have to repeat any of the attempts. After the
experiment, there was the challenge of making the paper. However, as we were united, we delegated our
tasks well and thus were able to accomplish the task.
3) How can you improve on the difficulties you encountered?
The next time, I would ensure to bring enough water beside me so that I wouldnt have to walk
back and forth to collect water, which is kind of tiring. I would also train myself to have a faster reaction
time so that when the timer hits an interval of 5 seconds, I would immediately shout time so that we would
have more accurate data.
4) How would you rate your contribute to the group output? The contribution of the other group members?
I would give us all an A+ as we all performed our assigned tasks with excellence. Personally, I was
the time keeper during the experiment itself. I also made and graphed the function of the data. In the
research paper, I did the body, inputted the data into the graph and the table, wrote the limitations, and
made the final revisions, especially for the conclusion. This does not say that my classmates didnt do
anything. We all helped each other, so I think we all deserved A+