1. Problem Solving
A Scientific Process

2. A Scientific Process… Is Based on Observed Facts
Has Repeatable Results
Produces Verifiable Outcomes
Is Carried Out in a Standard, Systematic Way

3. Scientific Method
The Standard, Systematic Way to Carry Out a Scientific Process
Hypothesis (Untested Idea)‏
Experiment (Test to Check Validity of Hypothesis)‏
Theory (Valid Explanation of Observations)‏
Model – Simplified Theory with Assumptions
Law (Summary of Key Experimental Observations)‏

4. The Scientific Method
Experiment
Theory
Law
Hypothesis

5. Scientific Problem Solving
Hypothesis
Experiment
Theory/Law
Understand Problem Concepts
Propose Solution Based on Applicable Relationships
Try Proposal (ie – Do the Math!)‏
Check Results – Do they Make Sense?
Document/Summarize Results

6. It’s All About Measurements
Measurement – 3 Parts
A Number or Value; Magnitude
A Unit: Provides the Standard Scale
One of the Standard Scale – Known and Constant
Eg, pound, gram, liter, newton
What is Being Measured – Sometimes Very Important

7. Examples of Measurements
3.98 calories of heat
5.67 newtons force of bowling ball striking pins
10.0 liters of water
57 km/hour auto speed
7.65 gallons gasoline

8. Not Measurements Objects Counted
Definitions – eg. Exactly 2.54 cm = 1 inch
Why Not?
Counted Items and Definitions are not debatable
They are “perfect”
No “perfect” measurements; always error; never exact

9. A Very Useful Technique
Dimensional Analysis (aka “Factor Labeling”)‏
Converting a Measurement from One Unit to Another
“Cutting to the Chase” of a Proportion Problem
m Unit 1 x Unit 2/Unit 1 = n Unit 2
Problem to Try – How many pounds is 583 grams?