Unit 0 - Scentific Method

Question 1

Observation

Answer 1

-Involves the use of one or more of our 5 senses

-A noting and recording of FACTS!

Question 2

Inference

Answer 2

-A logical interpretation made based upon prior knowledge and experience

-Based upon observations

Question 3

Hypothesis

Answer 3

-a testable idea or explanation that can be assessed through further investigation and experimentation.
-Should be written as an “If… then…” statement, NOT a question.

Question 4

Independent Variable

Answer 4

-the variable that is intentionally manipulated (changed) in an experiment.
-This should be the only difference between the control and experimental groups.

Question 5

Dependent Variable

Answer 5

the variable being measured in an experiment.

Question 6

experimental group

Answer 6

the group in an experiment that receives the independent variable.

Question 7

control group

Answer 7

the group in an experiment that does not receive the independent variable

Question 8

A scientifically valid conclusion is…

Answer 8

a statement that is based on reliable data, follows logically from a well-designed experiment, and accurately reflects the relationship between variables

Question 9

How can we make our experiment more valid?

Answer 9

Repeating the experiment, adding more subjects, making the experiment longer, having a larger concentration of the independent variable

Question 10

What is the difference between a theory and a fact?

Answer 10

A fact is an observation that can be measured or observed, while a theory is an explanation of facts (We cannot see them)

Question 11

Which axis is the independent variable?

Answer 11

x axis

Question 12

Which axis is the dependent variable?

Answer 12

y axis

Question 13

List the steps of a scientific investigation in order

Answer 13

1. Observation/Ask a question, 2. Research/Gather information, 3. Form a hypothesis, 4. Design and conduct an experiment, 5. Analyze data, 6. Draw conclusions

Question 14

A student conducted an original, well-designed experiment, carefully following proper scientific procedure. In order for the conclusions to become generally accepted, the experiment must

Answer 14

be repeated to confirm validity

Question 15

Conclusions based on an experiment are most likely to be accepted when

Answer 15

they are consistent with experimental data and observations