Nature of Science

scientific method

pattern of investigation procedures that can include stating a problem, forming a hypothesis, researching and gathering information, testing a hypothesis, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.

6 steps of the scientific method

problem, hypothesis, experiment, record, analyze, conclusion

hypothesis

possible explanation for a problem using what is known and what is observed.

experiment

organized procedure for testing a hypothesis; tests the effect of one thing on another under controlled conditions.

variable

quantity that can have more than a single value, can cause a change in the results of an experiment.

dependent variable

factor that changes as a result of changes in the other variables.

independent variable

factor that, as it changes, affects the measure of another variable.

control/constant

in an experiment, a variable that does not change.

model

can be used to represent an idea, object, or event that is too big, too small, too complex, or too dangerous to observe or test directly.

theory

explanation of WHY things happen based on knowledge gained from many observations

scientific law

statement about what happens in nature that seems to be true all the time; does not explain why or how something happens.

Trials

the number of times an experiment is repeated

predict

to say what will happen before it occurs

Inference

A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning

comparative investigation

Collecting data between groups to compare them with each other

observational investigation

a process of gathering information that uses one's senses, or instruments that increase the power of one's senses, without attempting to control any variables

experimental investigation

a method of scientific exploration with a set hypothesis and controlled conditions

Repetition

performing the experiment again, as the primary scientist

Replication

performing the experiment, following the same procedure as the original scientist. Someone else doing the experiment!

control group

the group that does not receive the experimental treatment.

qualitative observation

An observation that deals with characteristics that cannot be expressed in numbers.

quantitative observation

An observation that deals with a number or amount

linear

constant rate of change (slope)

exponential

increasing rate of change (slope)

Independent variable usually goes on the ____ axis

X

Dependent variable usually goes on the ____ axis

Y

body of knowledge

The total knowledge we have about the world. We are always adding to it and we admit when we are wrong. Not set in stone.

3 types of investigations

observational, comparative, experimental

why is a clear procedure important

It allows us to repeat, replicate, and other scientists to critique our experiment and make sure we did it right.

next steps after conclusion

Repetition, replication, iteration, sharing results with other scientists.