AP Science Practice 1: Scientific Models

AP Science Practice 1: The student can use representations and models to communicate scientific phenomena and solve scientific problems.  

Specifically the practice calls for AP science students to be able to:

• create representations and models
• describe representations and models
• refine representations and models
• use representations and models to analyze situations or solve problem
• re-express key elements of natural phenomena

Models are crucial parts of what scientists do.  Computer and mathematical models are used when in research to predict scientific phenomenon, but they are also used by scientist to explain communicate results.  As knowledge grows and changes a model can be tweaked or thrown out and started over from scratch.  
 
As a science educator I use models to explain and describe ideas and process that are very abstract or can not be experienced by a student.  Models help simplify concepts and enable students to predict how changes in environmental conditions will affect the process and begin to develop testable hypotheses.

Here are some of my current favorite models/modeling tools that are compatible with iOS.

Gizmos - ExploreLearning.com
This requires a subscription but has some quick simple simulations
that allow students to test multiple hypothesis quickly.

MoleculesAn Application for viewing 3D renderings of molecules

Enzymatic
Game that explains enzyme activity and how environmental
conditions effect activity.