Nature of Science 11/8/2015 Nature of Science 1

11/8/2015 Nature of Science The investigation and exploration of natural events A way to answer questions & solve problems Cannot solve all kinds of problems One way of understanding the world around us Based on observations, testable data, & logic Is constantly changing What is Science

11/8/2015 Nature of Science Observation – results from using one or more of your senses to gather information. e.g.-noticing that your neighbor’s rooster wakes you at 6:30 AM every morning is an observation. Makes use of all human senses Often leads to questions  hypothesis Observation

11/8/2015 Nature of Science Scientists then form a hypothesis Possible explanation for an observation that can be tested e.g., you observe that each time you spray an ant or a wasp with Raid™, it dies. From these observations you infer that Raid kills all insects Based on repeatable observation, experience and other scientific research Can be used to make predictions

11/8/2015 Nature of Science You test your hypothesis by designing an experiment. Variables Independent – changed by the experimenter. Dependent – affected by changes in the independent variable (the factor that is measured) Constant – stay the same during the experiment (ensures results are due to the independent variable) After an experiment, you organize your data and results. Make a graph Make calculations Finally you can begin to draw conclusions. A summary of the information gained from the experiment

11/8/2015 Nature of Science Laws - describes a repeatable pattern in nature. Theories - explanation of observations or events; supported by many facts gathered over time. Both are based on repeated observations and tests Both can be rejected or modified at any time Debate and revision of ideas in science is a natural process. Debate is NOT evidence that a theory is flawed. Theories & Laws

Description vs. Explanation Description : a spoken or written summary of observations Explanation : an interpretation of observations

11/8/2015 Nature of Science 8