Investigation and Experimentation Scientific Thinking and Processes

Standards: IEd. Formulate explanations by using logic and evidence. IEg.Recognize the usefulness and limitations of models and theories as scientific representations of reality. IEk.Recognize the cumulative nature of scientific evidence. IEf.Distinguish between hypothesis and theory as scientific terms.

Objectives: SWBAT… identify the different elements of scientific inquiry. differentiate between a hypothesis and theory. recognize the usefulness and limitations of models and theories as scientific representations of reality. collect and analyze multiple sources of data/scientific evidence.

(Review)How are graphs used in Science? Visually shows the relationship between two variables Independent variable (x-axis)-causes a change in the dependent variable Dependent variable-measureable outcome (y-axis) Graphs are used to display and analyze data from experiments and observations

(Review)-Data Analysis in Science Data is collected. The data is displayed in graphs. The data is analyzed (ie patterns, trends, and insights). Scientific Thinking-Evaluation of results and hypotheses

What is scientific thinking? Scientific Thinking=Thinking like a scientist Scientific thinking is a process of inquiry. Inquiry means investigation.

The Scientific Thinking Cycle

Figure 1.24 A campground example of hypothesis-based inquiry Observations Question Hypothesis #1: Dead batteries Hypothesis #2: Burnt-out bulb Prediction: Replacing batteries will fix problem Prediction: Replacing bulb will fix problem Figure 1.24 A campground example of hypothesis-based inquiry Test prediction Test prediction Test falsifies hypothesis Test does not falsify hypothesis

Scientific thinking begins with observations. Observations-collecting information on a topic. (data) Qualitative-“Quality” (smell, sounds, descriptions) Quantitative-numbers (mass, volume, temp.)

Observations and data are used to form a hypothesis. Observations can lead us to ask questions and propose explanations called hypotheses. A hypothesis leads to a testable prediction. This leads to an experiment.

How are experiments designed? Independent variable-the condition that is manipulated or changed. Dependent variable-measurable outcome caused by changes in the IV. Constants-conditions that don’t change during an experiment.

How are theories incorporated into Scientific Thinking? Broader than a hypothesis General, and can lead to new testable hypotheses Supported by a large body of evidence in comparison to a hypothesis Copyright © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Pearson Benjamin Cummings

Summary Questions How does scientific thinking usually begin? How do scientists form hypotheses? What are observations? What is the relationship between an independent and dependent variable? How are the terms hypothesis and theory different?