Scientific Method and Variables

Vocabulary flashcards covering the scientific method, question formulation, experimental variables, data types, and observations versus inferences.

Scientific Question

A question that can be investigated through direct observation and tools, is based on existing knowledge, and is measurable.

Non-Scientific Question

A question that cannot be tested or falsified, or one whose answer depends on personal beliefs rather than measurable evidence.

Steps of the Scientific Method

The sequential process used to make discoveries: Problem/Question, Hypothesis, Research, Experiment, Collect Data, Analyze Data, Communicate, and Conclusion.

Variables

The parts or factors of an experiment that can be changed.

Independent Variable (Manipulated Variable)

The one factor deliberately changed in an experiment to test a cause-and-effect reaction; it is plotted on the graph's X-axis.

Dependent Variable (Responding Variable)

The factor that is measured or observed in an experiment to see how it reacts to the manipulated change; it is plotted on the graph's Y-axis.

Controlled Variables

All factors in an experiment that are deliberately kept constant and unchanging across trials to ensure fair testing.

Control Group

The benchmark or baseline group in an experiment where nothing is changed, used for comparison against experimental results.

Controlled Experiment

An experiment in which only one independent variable is tested at a time and the results are compared to a control group.

Quantitative Data

Information made of exact numbers and measurements answering questions like 'how many,' 'how much,' or 'how long' that can be graphed, calculated, and objectively analyzed without personal opinions.

Qualitative Data

Descriptive information based on observations using the five senses, words, or categories rather than numbers, answering questions like 'What does it look like?' or 'How does it feel?'.

Observation

Information gathered directly through the five senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell, or taste) or measured using scientific tools.

Inference

A logical conclusion or educated guess formed by combining direct observations with prior knowledge.