Scientific Process Skills Ms. Tipple 7th & 8th grade Science

Refers to use of 5 senses to gather data about objects & events Observing Refers to use of 5 senses to gather data about objects & events

Classifying Involves grouping objects or events according to similar characteristics (e.g., shape, color, size)

Communicating Involves use of spoken & written words, graphs, drawings & diagrams to share information & ideas

Using Space/Time Relationships Involves developing an awareness of phenomena & events outside of one’s immediate environment (e.g., which soap has longest lasting bubble, which molecules are farther apart)

Measuring Scientists gather & share data about the world by using common standards of measurement (e.g., length, mass, volume, time).

Using Numbers Quantification is the essence of science, the ability to describe the world numerically is basic to all scientific endeavors

Formulating Hypotheses Scientific explanation that can be tested & is a key skill in the scientific method

Inferring Logical thought process to show a relationship between two or more observations

Predicting Forecasting future events based on observations & inferences

Defining Operationally An operational definition is a definition framed in terms of experiences. For example, defining an acid as any substance that turns blue litmus red is an operational definition.

Experimenting Combines all of the process skills used in conducting a scientific investigation

Forming Models A model is a verbal structure of graphic representation of the physical world. Scientists develop models as a way of describing the world, then test & refine those models as more information becomes available

Controlling Variables In a science experiment, two conditions, alike in every way but one, are compared to determine the influence of the one missing element

Interpreting Data Involves the analysis & synthesis of data to support or refute a hypothesis

Independent variable Something that the scientist changes Ask yourself “What is changing?”

Dependent Variable What is being measured?

What is staying the same? control What is staying the same?