Review of the Scientific Method Chapter 1

Scientific Method – –Organized, logical approach to scientific research. Not a list of rules, but a general guideline.

Scientific Method Steps – –Observation Gathering information with the five senses. – –Identification of a Problem – –Formation of a Hypothesis A possible explanation or solution to the problem. Based on facts. Can be tested.

Scientific Method Steps – –Test the Hypothesis Experimentation Additional Observation – –Analysis of Results – –Conclusion – –Report Results

Controlled Experiments Controlled Experiment – –An investigation that tests a hypothesis by collecting information under controlled conditions.

Controlled Experiments Controlled Conditions – –Control Group Standard against which results are compared. – –Experimental Group Test group which receives experimental treatment.

Controlled Experiments Variables Constants – –Factors that can change in an experiment. Independent variable Variable the you change Dependent variable Variable that you measure –Factors that do not change in an experiment.

Controlled Experiments Quantitative Data Qualitative Data –Measured in numbers. –Described in words.

Controlled Experiments Repetition – –Must repeat experiments many times with large sample groups in order to be valid.

Controlled Experiments Bias – –Your own personal opinion. – –Should not be a part of science.

Hypothesis, Theories, and Laws Theory – –An explanation or model supported by results of many experiments or observations. – –Provides a general explanation for scientific observations that is consistent with known facts. – –Usually explains many hypotheses.

Hypothesis, Theories, and Laws Laws – –A rule that describes the behavior of something in nature. Usually explains what will happen but not why. – –To become a law, a theory must be proven correct every time it is tested.

Technology Technology – –Use of scientific discoveries for practical purposes. Develops and build upon itself over time.

Limits of Science Science – –Cannot provide answers to questions that deal with ethics (morals) or beliefs (ex. religion).