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Published byLorin Parsons Modified over 8 years ago
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1.3: Scientific Thinking & Processes Key concept: Science is a way of thinking, questioning, and gathering evidence.
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Science is a process of trying to understand the world around us using critical and logical thinking to evaluate results and conclusions. Scientists gather evidence and share their findings with one another. Observation: the use of our senses, computers, and other tools to gather information about the world. Ex.: Studying the interactions between gorillas by observing their behavior.
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Observations can be recorded as data to be analyzed Qualitative data: Descriptions of phenomena that can include sights, sounds, and smells. Quantitative data: Characteristics that can be measured or counted such as mass, volume, and temperature; Numbers
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Scientists use observations and data to form hypotheses Hypothesis: A proposed, testable answer to a scientific question. Formal hypotheses are usually written in an “if, then, because” format. If (change of IV) then (change of DV) because (why you think this will happen).
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How do scientists test hypotheses? The scientific method A) Observe and ask questions that lead to a problem B) Form a hypothesis C) Test the hypothesis with a controlled experiment by making observations and gathering data. D) Analyze gathered data E) Reject (start over at step B) or Accept your hypothesis. F) Form a conclusion
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How do scientists test hypotheses? Controlled experiments study the effect of independent variables on dependent variables. Independent variable: A condition that is manipulated, or changed, by a scientist. Effects are measured by changes in dependent variables. Dependent variable: observed and measured during an experiment. Example: Testing medication to treat blood pressure. IV: medication dose, DV: blood pressure.
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Controlled experiments Only one independent variable should be changed in an experiment. Other conditions must stay the same and are called constants. Controlled experiments must have a control group – everything is the same as the experimental groups but the independent variable is not manipulated. Example: When testing blood pressure medication, control group receives none of the active ingredient. A large number of test subjects or trials is ideal.
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Other important science terms Inference: A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning. Law: A law that generalizes a body of observations. At the time it is made, no exceptions have been found to a law. It explains things but does not describe them; serves as the basis of scientific principles. Theory: A proposed explanation for observations and experimental results that is supported by a wide range of evidence – may eventually be accepted by the scientific community. Principle: A concept based on scientific laws and axioms (rules assumed to be present, true, and valid) where general agreement is present. Fact: An observation that has been repeatedly confirmed.
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