1. Chapter Two: Tools of Environmental Science

2. Section One: Scientific Methods
The Experimental Method
How do scientists make discoveries?
Observation: a piece of information we gather using our senses- sight, hearing, smell and touch.
Scientists also use tools to extend their observations
Ex. Rulers, microscopes, satellites

3. Section One: Scientific Methods
Observations almost always lead to more questions.
Hypothesis: testable idea or explanation that leads to a scientific investigation
A good hypothesis MUST be testable
Prediction: a logical statement about what will happen if the hypothesis is correct

4. Section One: Scientific Methods
Hypothesis vs. Prediction
A hypothesis is a general statement that offers an explanation of a problem that has been observed. It can be proven or disproven by experimentation.
A prediction is based on a hypothesis. It is meant to describe what will happen in a specific situation, such as during an experiment, if the hypothesis is correct.

5. Section One: Scientific Methods
Experiment: a procedure designed to test a hypothesis under controlled conditions
Two Essential Characteristics
A singe variable is tested
A control is used

6. Section One: Scientific Methods
Variable: the factor of interest
When testing for one variable two study groups or situations are used
Experimental Group: group that receives the experimental treatment
Control Group: group that does not receive the experimental treatment

7. Section One: Scientific Methods
Organizing and Analyzing Data
It is important to keep careful and accurate records.
Data: the information a scientist gathers during an experiment
Graphs are used to organize data and display relationships or trends.

8. Section One: Scientific Methods
Drawing Conclusions:
Comparing the outcome of their experiment with their prediciton
Experiments are repeated to ensure that you receive the same conclusions each time.
Scientists will publish their results to share their findings with others

9. Section One: Scientific Methods
The Correlation Method
Method used when questions cannot be studied by performing an experiment
Correlations: associations between two or more events

10. Section One: Scientific Methods
Scientific Habits of Mind
Curiosity
Habit of Skepticism
Openess to New Ideas
Intellectual Honest
Imagination and Creativity

11. Section Two: Statistics and Models
Statistics: the collection and classification of data that are in the form of numbers
Used to summarize, characterize, analyze and compare data
Statistical Population: a group of similar things that a scientist is interested in learning about

12. Section Two: Statistics and Models
Statistical populations have similar individuals but the individuals have different characteristics.
Mean: the number obtained by adding the data for a characteristic and dividing this sum by the number of individuals
Distribution: the relative arrangement of the members of a statistical population

13. Section Two: Statistics and Models

14. Section Two: Statistics and Models
Probability: The chance that something will happen
Sample: a group of individuals or events selected to represent the population

15. Section Two: Statistics and Models
Statistics in Your Everyday Life
The local weather report
Risk: the probability of an unwanted outcome

16. Section Two: Statistics and Models
Models: representations of objects or systems

17. Section Two: Statistics and Models
Physical Models: 3D models you can touch
Graphical Models: Maps and charts
Conceptual Models: a verbal or graphical explanation of how a system works or is organized

18. Section Two: Statistics and Models
Mathematical Model: one or more equations that represents the way a system or process works.
Where T= the total number of students
And SR+ SB is the number of red head students + the number of students with black hair
T= SR+ SB

19. Section Three: Making Informed Decisions
Values: principles or standards we consider important
Decision Making Model: a conceptual model that provides a systematic process for making decisions

20. Section Three: Making Informed Decisions
How to Use a Decision- Making Model
Gather Information
Consider Values
Explore Consequences
Make a Decision
Gather Information
Consider Values
Explore Consequences
Make a Decision