Chapter 1: The Scientific Method

Flashcards for Chapter 1: The Scientific Method, focusing on vocabulary.

Scientific Method

A series of steps used to investigate a natural occurrence.

Variable

A factor, trait, or condition that can exist in varying amounts or types and can change over time.

Independent Variable

The variable you change or manipulate.

Dependent Variable

The variable(s) you measure or observe.

Fixed/Controlled Variables

Variables you keep the same to make the test fair.

Aim

States what you intend to investigate; starts with "To determine…", "To investigate…" or "To show…"

Investigative Question

A question that links the independent and dependent variables; starts with “How will….”, “How does..”

Hypothesis

A possible prediction and/or explanation of the relationship between the variables; a statement, NOT a question.

Conclusion

Links the results of the aim; can either support or disprove the hypothesis.

Validity/Fairness

Keeping all the fixed variables the same.

Reliability

Repeat the experiment and increase the sample size.

Accuracy

Ensuring you are measuring with precision and that you know how to use the apparatus properly.

Experimental Control

Acts as a comparison to the experiment and allows scientists to be sure that any difference between the results is due to the independent variable.

Tabulation

Descriptive heading stating relationship between independent and dependent variables. Content in ink. No units in body of table.

Bar Graphs

Graphs where the independent variable does not represent data; rather single terms/objects.

Line Graphs

Graphs are used when both sets of data are continuous and numerical.

Scientific Drawings

Drawing in pencil; labels and label lines in pen. No shading/sketching. Descriptive heading.

Dependent Variable Example

The measurement of seedlings sprouted. (page 17)

Independant Variable Example

Water amounts. (page 17)

Control Variables

Controlled variable: Water/ Soil/ Temperature/ Day/Night Time