Unit 1: Scientific Method and Living Systems (Vocabulary)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from Unit 1 notes on the Scientific Method and basic experimental design.

Scientific Method

A series of steps followed to solve problems; steps are not always linear or identical for every question.

Problem/Question

The initial issue or question to be solved or investigated through experimentation.

Observation

The act of using senses to note the characteristics of an object or event; data can be qualitative or quantitative.

Qualitative Observation

Descriptive observations about an object's characteristics without numerical data (e.g., color, texture).

Quantitative Observation

Observations that involve numerical measurements or amounts.

Inference

A conclusion drawn from observations that goes beyond what is directly sensed.

Prediction

A forecast of what will happen in the future based on observations, inferences, and data trends.

Research

Literature review and reading of existing studies to inform a hypothesis; not lab work.

Hypothesis

A testable prediction about the relationship between independent and dependent variables, usually written as If…Then…

Independent Variable

The factor deliberately varied/tested by the experimenter.

Dependent Variable

The factor that may change as a result of changes to the independent variable.

If…Then Statement

A hypothesis phrased to describe the cause (If) and the expected effect (Then) on the dependent variable.

Experiment

A procedure with precise steps, a materials list, a quantifiable outcome, and a control group.

Procedure

The detailed, step-by-step instructions followed to conduct an experiment.

Control Group

The group that does not receive the independent variable, used as a baseline for comparison.

Negative Control

A control group that is not exposed to the experimental treatment; checks for contamination or procedural errors.

Positive Control

A control group exposed to a treatment known to produce the expected effect; confirms the system can produce a response.

Experimental Group

Group(s) that receive the independent variable in the experiment.

Constants

Factors kept the same across all experimental groups to ensure a fair test.

Data

Recorded observations from an experiment; can be qualitative or quantitative.

Qualitative Data

Descriptive data collected using the senses (non-numerical).

Quantitative Data

Numerical data and measurements.

SI Units

International System of Units used for standard measurements.

Trials

Repeated runs of an experiment to improve reliability.

Graph

A visual representation of data to illustrate relationships and trends.

Descriptive Statistics

Statistics that summarize data (e.g., mean, median, mode).

Inferential Statistics

Statistics used to make inferences about a population from sample data.

Conclusion

A written result stating whether the hypothesis was supported or refuted, with recommendations.

Communicate Results

Sharing findings through presentations, journal articles, or lectures.

Negative Control Example

Wiping lettuce with a sterile swab to show no bacterial growth, indicating no contamination.

Positive Control Example

Using a known bacterial colony on a growth plate to confirm the system can produce growth.