Science SOL 4.1 - Scientific Investigations (Video)

Question-and-answer flashcards covering the core concepts of scientific investigations as outlined in the notes.

How is a scientific question defined?

A testable question that can be answered through an experiment.

How is a non-scientific question defined?

A question that is not testable and may have more than one answer depending on who you ask.

What is a hypothesis, and how is it commonly written?

An educated guess about what will happen during the experiment, often written as 'If , then .'

What is a simple design problem in this context?

A problem that can be solved through the development of an object, tool, process, or system.

What are the three types of variables described in planning an investigation?

Independent Variable, Dependent Variable, and Constants.

What is the Independent Variable?

The part of the experiment that the experimenter controls.

What is the Dependent Variable?

The part that changes in response to the independent variable.

What are Constants?

The parts kept the same during each test or trial of the experiment.

What does it mean to collaboratively plan and conduct investigations?

Working with others to plan and carry out investigations.

What is the purpose of using tools and materials in design?

To design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem.

What does taking metric measurements entail?

Using appropriate tools to collect metric data and measure elapsed time.

How should data be organized and represented?

In bar graphs and line graphs.

What does it mean to compare two different representations of the same data?

Examine differences or similarities between representations to draw conclusions.

How do you use evidence to construct explanations and make inferences?

Use measurements, observations, and patterns to support explanations and inferences.

What is meant by developing and/or using models to explain natural phenomena?

Create and/or use models to explain how natural phenomena occur.

What are the steps of the scientific investigation process listed in the notes?

Ask a Question; Form a Hypothesis; Experiment; Observe and Record; Analyze; Communicate Results.

Give an example of a hypothesis written in the 'If… then…' format from the notes.

If I study for the test, then I will pass.