1. Scientific Theories vs. Scientific Laws

2. When I say “theory” what do you think this means?
What about a scientific theory?

3. Explains why an event occurs
Scientific Theory
A scientific theory summarizes a hypothesis or group of hypotheses that have been supported with repeated testing.
Explains why an event occurs

4. and becomes accepted as a valid explanation for something
Scientific Theory So
 If there is enough evidence to support a hypothesis, it moves to the next step
—known as a theory—
 and becomes accepted as a valid explanation for something

5. Example of a Scientific Theory
Plate Tectonics
Explains how Earth’s crust moves and why earthquakes and volcanoes occur
How & Why

6. Scientific Law A rule that describes a pattern in nature
States that an event will occur under certain circumstances

7. Example of a Scientific Law
Law of Gravitational force
If you drop an object, it will fall toward Earth
Newton’s law doesn’t explain why it does, only that it will.
What happens

8. Scientific Law Scientific Theory Explanation of something occurring
Description of something occurring

9. New Information in Science

10. Theory modified or rejected
New Information
Theory is not changed
Theory modified or rejected

11. The Scientific Method is not Perfect
Scientists recognize that some questions cannot be studied using the scientific method.
Questions that deal with opinions, beliefs, values, and feelings cannot be answered through scientific investigation .
Ex: Which food tastes best?
Ex: Is it ever okay to lie?

12. Homework!!! Read NOS pgs. 12-15 Do WKBK NOS pgs. 5-6
*You may skip the section in the workbook call “Numbers that are significant”