U1 Scientific Investigations

bar graph

Compares data in a number of categories.

line graph

Shows change over time.

circle graph

Shows how parts relate to the whole.

X axis

The horizontal axis of a graph

Y axis

The vertical axis of a graph.

model

A representation of an object that allows scientists to study it more closely.

simulation

Type of model that copies the function or process of something.

observation

GAINING KNOWLEDGE ABOUT SOMETHING USING OUR 5 SENSES.

inference

USING WHAT YOU KNOW TO FIGURE SOMETHING OUT.

bias

FAVORING ONE THING OVER ANOTHER. USUALLY NOT FAIR.

data

INFORMATION CONSISTING OF FACTS AND NUMBERS.

hypothesis

AN EDUCATED GUESS MADE THROUGH OBSERVATIONS AND WHAT YOU ALREADY KNOW. MUST BE TESTABLE.

subjective

INFLUENCED BY PERSONAL FEELINGS, TASTES, OR OPINIONS.

objective

NOT INFLUENCED BY PERSONAL FEELINGS, TASTES, OR OPINIONS.

qualitative

INFORMATION OBTAINED THROUGH 5 SENSES. NOT INCLUDING NUMBERS.

quantitative

INFORMATION USING NUMBERS

controlled variables

The variables that must not change throughout an experiment.

independent variable

The one variable that you will change in the experiment.

dependent variable

The variable that you measure or observe. It is the outcome.

Theory

well-tested explanation that unifies a broad range of observations

Law

a descriptive statement that reliably states events under certain conditions

Bias

A particular preference or point of view that is personal, rather than scientific.