Scientific Methods, Data, and Lab Knowledge

(Most of this information is common sense. This note is just for review.)

Scientific method - a logical approach to solving problems by observing and collecting data, formulating hypotheses, testing hypotheses, and formulating theories that are supported by data

• Hypothesis - a testable explanation to a question/problem based on data/observations
• Controls - experimental conditions which remain the same/constant
• Variables - experimental conditions which may change
• Independent variable - a variable that stands on its own/does not rely on other variables. May be changed by the experimenter
• Dependent variable - a variable that may change depending on the value of the independent variable
• (In Ms. Fu’s slide) there are 5 steps
  • observing
  • hypothesizing
  • testing
  • theorizing
  • communicating

Qualitative data - data that cannot be quantified; data that refers to non-numerical qualities rather than numbers

Quantitative data - numerical data

Theory - a widely accepted explanation of natural phenomena that has been repeatedly tested

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Lab Safety

• wear goggles
• tie back long hair
• wear closed-toe shoes
• long sleeves/pants
• don’t mess around in the lab
• no eating or drinking in the lab
• dispose of things properly
• if glass breaks, go to teacher

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