Scientific Research and Experimental Design Vocabulary

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the fundamental terms and steps of the scientific method and experimental design as outlined in the lecture notes.

Scientific Method

A process involving $7$ steps: $1$. Question, $2$. Research, $3$. Hypothesis, $4$. Experiments and Observations, $5$. Data, $6$. Conclusion, and $7$. New Question.

Constant

Things that stay the same on purpose in an experiment.

Independent Variable (IV)

The variable you change on purpose; referred to as the "I" change it variable.

Dependent Variable (DV)

The variable in an experiment that can be measured or observed to see how it responds to a change made to the independent variable.

Qualitative Data

Using descriptions to show how things are.

Quantitative Data

Using numbers to express measurements.

Hypothesis

An explanation based on scientific reasoning that can be tested to see if it is correct, typically structured as "If _____, then _____."

Experiment

A fair test driven by a hypothesis where only one variable is compared.

Data

Facts, figures, and evidence that a scientist gathers through experiments and observation.

Inferring

Explaining and interpreting the things you learn in an experiment through the evidence gathered and your own knowledge.

Observation

Using your sense to gather information.

Prediction

Making a forecast of what will happen.

Testable Question

A question that can be answered by designing and conducting an experiment.

Conclusion

A summary statement based on the results of an experiment.

Classification Key

A tool used to help identify objects and organisms based on a series of questions about their characteristics.