1. Chapter 1
Sections 2,3
Pages 10-21

2. What are independent and dependent variables?
Scientific method, a series of problem-solving procedures that help scientists conduct experiments.
A hypothesis, a testable explanation of a situation that can be supported or disapproved by careful experiments.
If……, then….., because….

3. How does experimentation and investigation differ?
Experimentation, an experiment is classified as an organized procedure that involves making observations and measurements to test a hypothesis.
Independent variable, the factor that is changed by the experimenter
Dependent variable, the factor that is affected by changes in the independent variable
Control, used to show that the results of an experiment are a result of the factor being tested (changed)
Constants, factors that do not change in an experiment
Specific amounts
needed to keep experiment valid, and reliable
Allows for experiment to be repeatable, with the same results

4. How does experimentation and investigation differ?
Investigation, Earth Scientists
Cannot control aspects of an experiment, i.e. rainfall, temperature
Research is used
Involves observations and collecting data
No control
Can lead to designs of future experiments based on observations

5. How does experimentation and investigation differ?
Investigations
Experiment
Variables cannot be controlled
Variables need to be controlled
No control
control
Research
Background information
Observations and collecting data
Analysis of data and observation
Conclusion must be supported by data and observations; must prevent bias or prejudge

6. How does experimentation and investigation differ?
Analysis and conclusions
Processes, data, and conclusions must be examined to eliminate influence by expectations or beliefs
Bias, prejudice
Graphs, charts, tables used to display data, which are analyzed to produce a conclusion

7. What are the differences between mass and weight?
Measurements used in Scientific investigations
System of standard units, Le Systeme International d’Unites (SI), a modern version of the metric system
Length is measured in meters (m)
1 cm = 1/100 of meter
1cm = 10 mm
1km = 1000m

8. What are the differences between mass and weight?
Mass, the amount of matter in object; it never changes
Gram, kilogram, metric ton
Weight, measurement of the gravitational force on an object; it changes
Newton (N)
Area, amount of surface within set boundaries m2

10. What are the differences between mass and weight?
Volume, the amount of space an object takes up

11. What are the differences between mass and weight?
Volume, the amount of space an object takes up
1 cm3 = 1 mL

12. What are the differences between mass and weight?
Density, the measure of the amount of matter that occupies a given space
Density = Mass/Volume
Time, the interval between two events
Seconds
Measured with a stopwatch or clock

13. What are the differences between mass and weight?
Temperature, a measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles that make up a material
Celsius (0C); room temp 21 0C, human body temp is 37 0C
SI unit of temperature is kelvin (K);
Absolute zero 0 K or C
Convert the following:
500C to K
-490C to K
77K to 0C
500K to 0C
Convert Temperatures
500C to K
323K
-490C to K
224K
77K to 0C
-1960C
500K to 0C
2270C

14. What is scientific notation and how is it used?
Scientific notation, used to express very large or very small numbers
Move the decimal to the left for large numbers
Move the decimal to the right for small numbers
Example:
4,567,000 becomes then x 106
becomes then
101 = = 1.0
102 = = 0.1

15. Communication in Science
Section 2

16. Why is precise communication crucial in science?
Video: Anti-Vaxxers Fund Study - Zero Link Between Vaccinations And Autism
Scientists need to be truthful and accurately (ethics) report their methods and results.
To keep scientists ethical, scientists in the same field will conduct a peer review to verify each other’s results and examine procedures and conclusions for bias.
Lab Reports, see handouts (format, rubric)

17. When is it appropriate to use a graph or a model?
Graphs can easily show the relationship/trends/patterns among data
Line graphs, independent variable is plotted on the x-axis; the dependent variable plotted on the y-axis
Circle graphs (pie charts) shows a fixed quantity; the slices are usually presented as percentages (%)
Bar graphs, represent quantitative data

18. When is it appropriate to use a graph or a model?
Scientific model, is an idea picture, a system, or a mathematical expression that represents a concept/topic.
Models can change when more data is gathered.

19. What are the differences between scientific theories and scientific law?
Scientific theory, is an explanation based on observations during repeated investigations.
Must meet the following criteria
Is consistent with observations and supported with experimental or factual evidence
Testable predictions
Simplest explanation of observations
Can be changed or modified with new data
Scientific law, is a principle that describes the behavior of a natural phenomenon
Rule of nature
observed to be the same every time
Theories are often used to explain scientific law