Scientific Method Flashcards
Scientific Method
The scientific method is an organized way for scientists to answer questions and develop solutions
Controlled Experiment
An experiment that changes only one variable.
Variable
Any factor that can exist in differing amounts or types
Data
The information and results gathered from an experiment
Hypothesis
An educated guess; a scientific prediction; a possible solution to a problem
Experimental Group
The group that tests the changed factor, they experience the special treatment.
Control Group
The group that remains the same; unchanged; does not experience the special treatment.
used for comparison
Control
Parts of the experiment that stay the same
(control factors, or constants.)
Independent Variable
Factor being intentionally changed, “I” change
(manipulated variable)
THE DIFFERENCE
Dependent Variable
Factor that occurs as a result of the change, the part of the experiment that is recorded
(responding variable)
*Results or measurements
Prediction
A guess about what will happen in the future.
Observation
Information that one gathers using their senses (sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing)
*fact
Inference
Conclusions that you draw based on your background knowledge and evidence you’ve collected
*opinion
Quantitative Observation
A description of an observation using numbers and measurements.
*numerical
Qualitative Observation
A description of an observation using words only.
*description
