Introduction to Science and the Scientific Method 8/21

Vocabulary based on the introduction to scientific evidence, the scientific method, and the case study of radiation effects on male rats.

Scientific Fact

An observation or finding that applies to a large body of people and is scientifically proven, rather than a personal experience or observation.

Scientific Evidence

A way of knowing and a never-ending process of seeking answers to questions through repeated experiments.

Scientific Process

The specific sequence of steps used in experimentation: make observation, form hypothesis, conduct experiment, analyze data, and form conclusion.

Scientific Hypothesis

A statement that explains an observation and must be both a testable and falsifiable explanation.

Testable

A quality of a hypothesis meaning it can be supported or rejected through careful experimentation or observational studies.

Independent Variable

The variable in an experiment that is being manipulated by the researcher.

Dependent Variable

The variable that is measured throughout the experiment to observe the results of the manipulation.

Experimental Group

The group in a study that receives the treatment being tested, such as the male rats exposed to cell phone radiation for $9\text{ hours a day}$ over a period of $2\text{ years}$.

Control Group

The group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment (e.g., the rats not exposed to radiation) used as a baseline for comparison.

Scientific Theory

An idea or hypothesis that has never been disproved even after many years of rigorous testing.

Scientific Journals

Publications where factual scientific information is shared and can be supported or disproved through further scientific experimentation.

Driving Questions

Questions found in Achieve or study guides that, once answered, indicate a student is prepared for the exam.