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Just a thought, not sure if you are doing this but if the students don't have science background/a strong foundation, this may make it difficult for them to make the necessary connections (since they may be lacking the required information/science builds on previous concepts).
Try doing a quick comprehension check before, or creating a concept map.
What do they need to know already in order to understand this new concept? What should they be learning during the activity? What questions can I use to help guide them towards understanding the concept during the activity?
Also, try making tasks and objectives specific, and use higher order question to get them thinking about what is happening during experiments.
I have found the 5E lesson model to be very useful for this, as well as concept maps, and reviewing what students know before (Q&A) so you know what to address. Resource for all these are available through NSTA.
Hope this helps! :)
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