1. Scientific Process Skills
Ms. Tipple 7th & 8th grade Science

2. Refers to use of 5 senses to gather data about objects & events
Observing
Refers to use of 5 senses to gather data about objects & events

3. Classifying
Involves grouping objects or events according to similar characteristics (e.g., shape, color, size)

4. Communicating
Involves use of spoken & written words, graphs, drawings & diagrams to share information & ideas

5. Using Space/Time Relationships
Involves developing an awareness of phenomena & events outside of one’s immediate environment (e.g., which soap has longest lasting bubble, which molecules are farther apart)

6. Measuring
Scientists gather & share data about the world by using common standards of measurement (e.g., length, mass, volume, time).

7. Using Numbers
Quantification is the essence of science, the ability to describe the world numerically is basic to all scientific endeavors

8. Formulating Hypotheses
Scientific explanation that can be tested & is a key skill in the scientific method

9. Inferring
Logical thought process to show a relationship between two or more observations

10. Predicting
Forecasting future events based on observations & inferences

11. Defining Operationally
An operational definition is a definition framed in terms of experiences. For example, defining an acid as any substance that turns blue litmus red is an operational definition.

12. Experimenting
Combines all of the process skills used in conducting a scientific investigation

13. Forming Models
A model is a verbal structure of graphic representation of the physical world. Scientists develop models as a way of describing the world, then test & refine those models as more information becomes available

14. Controlling Variables
In a science experiment, two conditions, alike in every way but one, are compared to determine the influence of the one missing element

15. Interpreting Data
Involves the analysis & synthesis of data to support or refute a hypothesis

16. Independent variable Something that the scientist changes
Ask yourself “What is changing?”

17. Dependent Variable
What is being measured?

18. What is staying the same?
control
What is staying the same?