Scientific Writing and Lab Fundamentals Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering graphing principles, the structure of a scientific introduction, and grammar rules for materials and methods sections.

Independent Variable

The variable in an experiment that is plotted on the x-axis of a graph.

Dependent Variable

The variable in an experiment that is measured and plotted on the y-axis of a graph.

Bar Graph

A type of graph best used when comparing discrete groups on a single dependent variable, such as comparing the mean weight of two different lima bean types.

Scatter Plot

A type of graph used when analyzing the relationship between continuous variables on both the x and y axes, such as measuring lima bean weight against length.

Introduction Section

The opening portion of a scientific paper structured like an hourglass, moving from a broad topic overview to a specific experimental goal to bridge the reader's knowledge gap.

Topic Statement

The broad initial sentence or hook in an introduction that introduces the central theme and engages the reader.

Research Gap

A statement or section within an introduction that highlights unsolved questions, missing information, or weaknesses in existing literature that the study aims to address.

Objective

A specific statement in an introduction defining the exact question, aim, or purpose that the study sets out to accomplish.

Materials and Methods

A single, integrated section of a scientific paper that concisely explains how an experiment was performed and how data were analyzed so that another researcher can replicate it.

Passive Voice

A grammatical convention required in materials and methods writing where the actor (e.g., 'we' or 'the lab group') is removed to focus entirely on the action and subject.

Past Tense

The grammatical tense required when writing a materials and methods section to reflect actions that have already been completed.

Et al.

An italicized Latin abbreviation meaning 'and others,' used after the lead author's last name in in-text scientific citations.