Scientific Method-

Inference Logical interpretation of a prior knowledge or experience Ex: Picture was taken in an area where it is cold enough to snow. Observation Use of your senses to gather data. Ex: The snow is white The trees are covered in snow.

Controlled Experiment Include two groups 1. Experimental group: one variable is changed 2. Control group: normal conditions; group used for comparison.

Experiments Every experiment, no matter how unique, share certain characteristics WITH all the others. They all must have: 1. Problem or Question 2. Variables

Forming a Hypothesis Def: a proposed scientific explanation for an observation Is a statement Is testable

Lab Variables Independent variable (IV) – the factor that you are testing in the experiment. “CAUSE” Dependent Variable (DV)– the factor that changes because of the independent variable; it’s what you measure. “EFFECT” Constants/Controlled variables– variables that are the same for both control and experimental groups.

Multiple Trials Necessary to repeat an experiment at least 2 times. If you get the same results over and over then your results are considered reliable.

Collecting Data Two Types of Data: 1. Quantitative – numbers (time, temperature, length, mass, etc.) 2. Qualitative – descriptions, drawings Both types of data are important in conducting experiments

Displaying Data All graphs must have: GRAPH TABLE Title Label on each axis with name of variable Unit on each axis marked off in equal increments TABLE Independent variable in first column Dependent variable in second column Include a descriptive title

Line graph Shows change between variables.

Bar graph Shows comparisons

Pie graph Shows parts of a whole or percentages

Drawing a Conclusion Use evidence (data) to determine if hypothesis was supported or refuted

Publishing/Repeating Investigations Over time and repetition, a hypothesis may become so well supported that it becomes a theory