1. Lesson 3
Scientific Inquiry

2. 1.3 Learning Objectives
Explain what scientific inquiry is and how it involves posing questions and developing hypotheses.
Explain how to design and conduct an experiment so that it uses sound scientific principles.
Differentiate between a scientific theory and a scientific law.
7.NS.1 Make predictions and develop testable questions
7.NS.2 Plan and carry out investigations
7.NS.3 Collect quantitative data with correct units
7.NS.4 Incorporate variables that can be changed
7.NS.6 Test predictions with multiple trials
7.NS.8 Analyze data, identify patterns and make inferences
7.NS.9 Evaluate causes of differing results
7.NS.10 Compare results with prediction
7.NS.11 Communicate findings using models.
7.DP.2 Brainstorm solutions

3. Ch. 1, Lesson 3
Scientific Inquiry: diverse ways scientists study the natural world and propose explanations
*Multi-path process*
Some scientists run experiments
Some scientists study available data and make inferences

4. Ch. 1, Lesson 3 Posing Questions EXAMPLE
Process begins with a problem, question, or observation
EXAMPLE
Problem:
What questions could the scientists ask to start the scientific inquiry?

5. Ch. 1, Lesson 3
Hypothesis
Possible explanation for a set of observations or answer to a scientific question
Must be testable
Gather evidence to support or disprove hypothesis

6. Ch. 1, Lesson 3 Design an Experiment Must design an experiment
Controlled Experiment – only one variable changes at a time
Independent variable: called the manipulated variable; Changed on purpose
Dependent variable : called the responding variable; Factor that may change in response to the independent variable

7. Ch. 1, Lesson 3 Collecting & Interpreting Data Graphing Results
Data - facts and figures involved in the experiment
Record all observations
Graphing Results
Use a graph to show data
Reveals patterns or trends
Independent/ Manipulated variable on x-axis
Dependent/ Responding variable on y-axis

8. Example

9. Ch. 1, Lesson 3 Draw Conclusions Communication Overall Summary
Make a decision
Data support hypothesis?
Experiment may raise new ?’s
Communication
Tell the world your results!!!

10. Ch. 1, Lesson 3 Scientific Theories & Laws
Theory: well-tested explanation for wide range of observations
Law: statement that describes what scientists expect to happen every time under certain conditions
Big Difference: law describes a pattern in nature, but does not explain it