Introduction to Science

Introduction to Science PA Standards 3.1.12.A Unifying Themes 3.1.12.B Unifying Themes 3.1.12.C Unifying Themes 3.1.12.D Unifying Themes Apply concepts of systems, feedback and control to solve complex technological problems. Apply concepts of models as a method to predict and understand science and technology. Assess and apply patterns in science and technology. Analyze scale as a way of relating concepts and ideas to one another by some measure.

Section 2 Objectives: The Way Science Works Understand how to use critical thinking skills to solve problems. Describe the steps of the scientific method.

Understand how to use critical thinking skills to solve problems.

Which size of popcorn is the better deal? $2.00 (80 oz) $4.50 (160 oz) Which size of popcorn is the better deal?

Science Skills Critical thinking is the ability and willingness to assess claims critically and to make judgments on the basis of objective and supported reasons. Scientists approach a problem by thinking logically.

Demonstration View the four beakers. How can we determine what is inside of the beakers? Scientific Method

Describe the steps of the scientific method.

Scientific Method Scientific method a series of steps followed to solve problems including collecting data, formulating a hypothesis, testing the hypothesis, and stating conclusions

Scientific Method Observe Formulate a Question Observe anything in nature. Formulate a Question What do you want to know? Research and Collect Data What is already known about your question? Form a Hypothesis Propose an answer to your question based on observations, research, and data.

Scientific Method Testing hypotheses Hypothesis a possible explanation or answer that can be tested Scientists test a hypothesis by doing a controlled experiment. In a controlled experiment, all the factors that could affect the experiment are kept constant except for one change. Variable a factor that changes in an experiment in order to test a hypothesis Dependent Independent

Scientific Method Observe Draw Conclusions There are many tools used by scientists for making observations, including microscopes telescopes spectroscopes particle accelerators computers Draw Conclusions Did the results support or refute your hypothesis?

Scientific Method Conducting experiments No experiment is a failure – Supported or Refuted The results of every experiment can be used to revise the hypothesis or plan tests of a different variable.

Activity Apply the scientific method to completing the following activity: You are provided with the following materials: 1 piece of paper 12 inches of tape Goal: Hold as much weight (text books) as possible. Limitations: Books must be at a minimum of 1 inch above the surface.

Thought Questions Today, scientists must search through scientific journals before performing an experiment or making methodical observations. Where would this step take place in a diagram of scientific methods? Why do you think that it is a good idea to limit an experiment to test only one variable at a time whenever possible?