Nature of Science Flashcards
Observation
The process of obtaining information by using the senses
Scientific Theory
A well-tested explanation for a wide range of observations or experimental results
Scientific Law
A statement that describes what scientists expect to happen every time under a particular set of conditions.
Independent Variable
The experimental factor that is changed by the investigator; variable that is manipulated to observe how it affects the dependent variable.
Dependent Variable
The experimental factor that is being measured; variable that may change in response to manipulations of the independent variable.
Control Group
The group in an experiment where the independent variable being tested is not applied so that it may serve as a standard for comparison against the experimental group where the independent variable is applied.
Hypothesis
A possible explanation about an observation that can be tested by scientific investigations.
If you do not understand your lab procedure, you can make up your own steps
Read/Listen to all directions and follow them carefully. If in doubt, ask for help.
Wear goggles, aprons, and gloves only when you are trying to look cool.
Wear personal protective equipment, as appropriate.
If you spill something, clean it up before your teacher finds out (that’s how you avoid trouble👍)!
Notify the teacher immediately in case of an accident, no matter how minor.
Let your glorious locks of hair flow wild and free during a lab!
NO open toed shoes, excessively loose fitting clothes, or loose long hair.
Always run in the lab, so you can get the best equipment.
Refrain from all practical jokes and horse play as they could result in serious harm to them self or to others.
Only inhale chemicals that you are sure are safe.
Never taste, touch or smell any of the chemicals. (wafting)
You only have to wash your hands if you have lunch after the lab.
Maintain a clean, neat work place, being sure to wash the lab table at the end of each lab in preparation for the next student. Dispose of wastes in the proper containers.
Ask a question
Develop a clear statement (narrowed/specific) defining the problem.
Research the Topic
write down all info. Look up info. on the topic you’re investigating.
Form a hypothesis
If…then… statement explaining your prior scientific research.
Test the Hypothesis
Create your experiment only 1 independent variable.
Gather Data
Make observations (qualitative and quantative)
Analyze Results
Create charts and graphs from collected data
Draw Conclusions
Does that data support your hypothesis? Why or why not?
Communicate Results
Publish your findings in a book, journal, and internet
Model
A simplified representation of a system has advantages and disadvantages.
Field Study
study of free-living plants or animals in their natural habitat.
Experimental Investigation
process in which an observer tests a hypothesis by looking for changes caused by manipulating a variable.
Descriptive Investigation
Describing and or quantifying parts of a natural system
If you feed elephants organic peanuts, then they will run faster.
IV- Type of peanuts
DV- How fast they will run
If you study longer, then you will score higher on your exams.
IV- Length of study
DV- Score on exam.
If tulips are placed in milk, then they will grow taller.
IV- Liquid tulips are placed in
DV- How tall they grow.
