Chapter 1.2: Scientific Inquiry

Question 1

Science

Answer 1

A way of knowing about or understanding the natural world - observing, experimenting, and explaining concepts based on predictions

Question 2

Inquiry

Answer 2

The search for information and explanations of natural phenomena

Question 3

Critical thinking

Answer 3

Objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgement

Question 4

Observation

Answer 4

The act of perceiving using the senses

Question 5

Qualitative data

Answer 5

Descriptions, how it looks, smells, feels, sounds

Question 6

Quantitative data

Answer 6

Numerical measurements organized into tables and graphs

Question 7

Inductive reasoning

Answer 7

Deriving generalizations from a large number of specific observations

Question 8

Hypothesis

Answer 8

Explanation based on observations and assumptions that leads to a testable prediction

Question 9

Deductive reasoning

Answer 9

Using general premises to make specific predictions

Question 10

Controlled experiment

Answer 10

Experimental group is compared with a control group

Question 11

Variables

Answer 11

Features or quantities that vary in an experiment

Question 12

Independent variable

Answer 12

Variable that is manipulated by the researchers

Question 13

Dependent variables

Answer 13

Variable predicted to be affected in response to

Question 14

Experimental group

Answer 14

Group exposed to the independent variable

Question 15

Control group

Answer 15

Group for comparison that is not exposed to experimental variable

Question 16

Theory

Answer 16

Broader than hypothesis, leads to new hypotheses, supported by much evidence

Question 17

Statistical significance

Answer 17

Results that are statistically unlikely to have occurred by chance