1. Section 1 Methods of Science
Chapter 1
Section 1
Methods of Science

2. What is Science? A method for studying the natural world
A process that uses observation and investigation to gain knowledge about events in nature

3. Major categories of science
Life Science
Living things
Earth Science
Earth and space
Physical Science
Matter and energy

4. Investigations Investigations are used to learn new information
Observations
Experiments
Models
Often, scientists will use all three investigations to learn about the natural world

5. Scientific Method
An organized set of investigative procedures

6. Stating a Problem Someone observes an event in nature
Questions are asked
Why did that happen?
How does that occur?
Why is this activity not working?

7. Researching and Gathering Information
Learn about the background of the problem
Has anyone else found out information about the problem that will be useful?

8. Forming a Hypothesis
A hypothesis is a possible explanation for a problem
When writing a hypothesis, use an if/then statement.

9. Testing a Hypothesis Many ways to test Making observations
Building a model
Relate to real life situation
Perform an experiment
An experiment tests the effect of one thing on another

10. Variables, Constants and Controls
A factor that can cause a change in the results of an experiment
Two types of variables
Dependant
Independent
Constant
A factor that does not change when other variables change
Control
A standard by which test results can be compared

11. Analyzing Data Recording data Organizing data into tables and graphs
Displaying data

12. Drawing Conclusions Using data, was your hypothesis supported or not?
To be widely accepted, experiment must result in the same data every time it is repeated
If not supported, you should reconsider your hypothesis
Scientists need to reduce bias
A bias occurs when what the scientist expects changes how the results are viewed
Reduce bias by running as many trials as possible
Experiments must be repeatable

13. Visualizing with Models
A model represents an idea, event or object to help people better understand it
Models have been used throughout history
Lord Kelvin was famous for his models in the 1800’s
He modeled how light moves through space by putting balls in a bowl of jelly
Some models are high tech
NASA uses computer models
Simulators
Pilots use an airplane simulator to practice different emergencies before flying a real plane

14. Scientific Theories
A theory is an explanation of things or events based on knowledge gained from many observations
It is not a guess
If scientists have investigations that constantly support a hypothesis, then it can become a theory
Just because there is a lot of supporting evidence, it doesn’t mean a theory will never change

15. Scientific Laws
A statement about what happens in nature and that seems true all of the time
Laws tell you what is going to happen, but not necessarily why it is happening

16. Limitations of Science
Science can explain many things, but not everything
It is up to the scientist to make a good hypothesis that can be tested
Emotions and values are not scientific questions

17. Using Science and Technology
Technology is not the same as science
Technology is using the application of science to help people
Science and technology do not always have positive results
Pollution
Nuclear technology
Safe disposal