1.3 The Scientific Method and Experimental Design (Mr. Staeger as a young scientist)

Key Concepts and Vocabulary Key Vocabulary: Inference Hypothesis Data Quantitative Data Qualitative Data Independent variable Dependent variable Control Accuracy Precision Key Concepts: How do we learn new things in science? What are the steps of the scientific method? What are the variables in an experiment? What are ways we measure in Science?

Science “Science” is not just a subject - it is a way of obtaining information. All scientists must work through a logical process in order to reach conclusions. Scientific method - the logical series of steps scientists use to answer questions.

Steps in the Scientific Method Observation: Using one of the five senses – which are? Must be facts, not inferences or opinions. What is an inference?

Steps in the Scientific Method Form a Question: Use observations to develop a question or problem you want to answer.

Steps in the Scientific Method Hypothesis: A possible explanation that can be tested through experimentation. If - then - because statement Write an example below:

Steps in the Scientific Method Experiment: Design a procedure that can test your hypothesis Record measurements and other observations - data Types of data: Quantitative - Qualitative -

Steps in the Scientific Method Analyze Data: Determine whether data supports or refutes your hypothesis Graphing results Ways to analyze numerical data: Mean – Median – Mode –

Steps in the Scientific Method Conclusion: Write up the results of the experiment and state the findings to your question or problem. Report any mistakes or errors that occurred in the experiment

Experimental Setup Variable – factor that is changed in experiments Independent variable – the variable purposely changed by the experimenter Dependent variable – the variable that responds to the change (what happens) Control – group without a variable that is used as a comparison

Experimental Design Diagram IV: Levels of the IV: Repeated Trials: DV: Constants:

Experimental Design Lisa and Terri are demolition experts trying to figure out which explosive works best on concrete blocks. They currently use normal dynamite on everything. They want to find out if the explosive C4, HBX, Minol-2, or normal dynamite works best. They explode 5 concrete blocks with each of the explosives and measure to see how far the debris travels.

Experimental Design Diagram IV: Levels of the IV: Repeated Trials: DV: Constants:

Scientific Measurements Accuracy – making correct, exact measurements Precision – making repeated consistent measurements Draw dartboards that show accuracy and precision

Experimental Design Diagram IV: Levels of the IV: Repeated Trials: DV: Constants:

Experimental Design Diagram IV: Levels of the IV: Repeated Trials: DV: Constants:

Experimental Design Diagram IV: Levels of the IV: Repeated Trials: DV: Constants:

Experimental Design Diagram IV: Levels of the IV: Repeated Trials: DV: Constants: