The Scientific Method

Define Biology

The study of living things

Define Scientific Method

The way the scientists learn and study the world around them

List out all the steps of the Scientific Method

1. Observation

2. Hypothesis

3. Experiment

4. Collection and Interpretation of data

5. Conclusion

Define Hypothesis

An educated guess based on an observation

Where do scientists publish their results?

Scientific journal

Define Theory

Hypothesis that has been proven by experiments many times

Define Principle / Law

Factual explanation of an important aspect of nature

Name 3 factors needed in setting up an experiment

Variable

Control

Safety Procedures

Define Control

Comparison

Name 3 safety procedures

Wearing goggles

Tying up long hair

Standing Up

Name 3 ways to make an experiment fair

Random Selection

Large Sample Size

Double Blind Testing

Why do we use random selection in an experiment?

To avoid bias

Why do we use replication in an experiment?

To verify results

Why do we use a large sample size in an experiment?

To Increase accuracy

Define Double Blind Testing

Neither the tester nor the subject knows what treatment is given

Define Placebo

A fake drug used as a control

Why do we use Double Blind Testing in an Experiment?

To Avoid bias

Name 3 sources of error in an experiment

Miscounting

Misidentification

Bias

Name 3 limitations of the scientific method

The extent of our knowledge

Interpretation of results

Accidental discoveries

Define Ethics

Whether something is right or wrong