Scientific Method Review

Branches of Science Life Science Earth Physical Science Biology Study of all living things Study of earth Landforms, rocks, soil, and forces shaping earths surface Chemistry Physics Study interactions of matter and energy

What are the steps to the Scientific Method? Observation (using the 5 senses) Ask a question Hypothesize & predict Test hypothesis (Experiment) Materials Procedures Data (journal, pictures, charts) Analyze results Draw conclusions Communicate results Further scientific inquiry A successful hypothesis becomes a Scientific Theory.

Designing a Controlled Experiment A controlled experiment works with one variable at a time. If several variables were changed at the same time, the scientist would not know which variable was responsible for the observed results. In a “controlled experiment” only one variable is changed at a time. All other variables should be unchanged or “controlled”.

Match the definitions: Variable Independent Variable Dependent Variable c a b a. The factor you want to test/changed by the investigator b. The factor you observe or measure during an experiment. c. A factor that can have more than one value

What are Scientific Theory & Scientific Law? An explanation of events that is based on repeated observations and investigations. If information does not support theory, it will be modified or rejected Attempts to explain why something happens More complex than a scientific law and contains many well supported hypothesis Scientific Law Observations of similar events that have been observed repeatedly If observations do not follow a law, it is not a law States that something will happen Contains one well supported hypothesis that states something will happen

Distinguish between fact & opinion? A measurement observation, or statement that can be strictly defined. Opinion A personal view, feeling, or claim about a topic.

Distinguish between description& explanation? A spoken or written summary of an observation Explanation An interpretation (explain the meaning of) of observations

The International System of Units (SI) What is the name of the system of measurements adopted by Scientists called? The International System of Units (SI) What is a Significant digit? The number of digits in a measurement that you know with a degree of certainty.

How do Scientist benefit from SI? It allows all scientists throughout the world to share results using the same measurements Helps to avoid any confusion

Metric Units

What causes measurement uncertainty? When we measure an object, we want to know how close this value is to the true value. The tools used to take measurements can limit the accuracy of measurements. All measurements have some uncertainty Which measurement is more accurate? ✔

Accuracy: a measure of how close a measurement is to the true value of the quantity being measured Precision: a measure of how close a series of measurements are to one another. A measure of how exact a measurement is. 7th grade only!

Accuracy without Precision Accuracy & Precision Accuracy without Precision Precision without Accuracy No Precision & No Accuracy 7th grade only!

the number that occurs the most. Mean the average of a set of data. To calculate the mean, find the sum of the data and then divide by the number of data Mode the number that occurs the most. Range the difference between the largest and the smallest number in the set. Median the middle number in a set of data when the data is arranged from least to greatest. 6th grade only!

Scientific Tools Journal: used to record observations, questions , hypothesis, data, and conclusions Computer: collect, organize, and store information about a research topic or scientific investigation Rulers/meter sticks: measure lengths & distances Internet: research data, analyze information, share results Glassware: hold, pour, and take precise measurement of liquids Microscope: helps you observe small objects that cannot be observed with just eyes Triple beam balance: measures mass of an object Thermometer: measures the temperature of a substance

Scientific Tools used by Earth Scientists Binoculars: view faraway objects more clearly Compass: used to navigate by showing magnetic north Wind Vane: shows direction of the wind Anemometer: measures wind speed Streak plate: piece of hard, unglazed porcelain that helps identify minerals 6th grade only!

Scientific Tools used by Life Scientists Magnifying Lens: a handheld lens that magnifies, or enlarges, objjects. Slide: a thin rectangular piece of glass that is needed for specimens to view in a microscope. Dissecting tools: sharp scalpels or scissors used to examine organs, or prepared organisms. Pipette : a small glass or plastic tube used to draw up and transfer liquid. 7th grade only!