1. Nature of Science Vocabulary
Grade 5 Unit 1 Fusion Science

2. investigation (noun)
Definition: A procedure that is carried out in order to observe a response caused by a stimulus; not a complete experiment. Synonym: exploration Antonym: neglect Etymology (Word Origin): Latin investigatus

3. observation (noun)
Definition: A record or description using your five senses to collect the information. Synonym: notice Antonym: disregard Etymology (Word Origin): Latin observatio What sense do you rely upon most throughout the day?

4. inference (noun)
Definition: A record or description using your five senses to collect the information. Synonym: assumption Antonym: fact Etymology (Word Origin): Latin inferentia What can you inference can you make from this picture? Click on link to compare an observation and an inference.

5. predict (verb)
Definition: Declare what will happen in advance on the basis observation, experience, or scientific reasoning. Synonym: foretell Antonym: guess Etymology (Word Origin): Latin praedictus

6. experiment (noun)
Definition: An investigation in which all the conditions are contolled. Synonym: test Antonym: game Etymology (Word Origin): Latin experimentum

7. classify (verb)
Definition: To assign to a category. Synonym: group Antonym: jumble Etymology (Word Origin): Latin classi Can you compare and contrast physical traits of reptiles and mammals?

8. control group (noun)
Definition: The set up of an experiment in which you will compare all the others. Synonym: constant Antonym: change Which side of the picture is the control group? Explain.

9. variable (noun) Definition:
Any condition in an experiment that can be changed.
IMPORTANT! There are two types of variables in an experiment.
Independent variable: The one thing that is changed.
Dependent variable: The one thing that changes as a
direct result of the independent variable.
Etymology (Word Origin): Latin variabilis
Click on link to watch what a video that compares the two.

10. testable (adjective)
Definition: To put to test or proof. Synonym: confirmable Antonym: untestable Etymology (Word Origin): Latin testu

11. trials (noun)
Definition: The act of trying, testing, or putting something to proof. Synonym: test Antonym: n/a Etymology (Word Origin): French triet Why is the number of trials you conduct within an experiment important? Is there a minimum or maximum number you should conduct? Support your answer.

12. data (noun)
Definition: Factual information used as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or calculation. Synonym: information Antonym: n/a Etymology (Word Origin): Latin datum IMPORTANT FACT! Data is a plural word. For example, These data are described more fully in the book.

13. analyze (verb)
Definition: To study and determine the nature of the relationship of the parts. Synonym: break down Antonym: synthesize Etymology (Word Origin): Greek analysis

14. valid (adjective)
Definition: Well-grounded or justifiable; being at once relevant and meaningful. Synonym: reasoned Antonym: unsound Etymology (Word Origin): Latin validus

15. conclusion (noun)
Definition: A reasoned judgment. Synonym: determination, closing point Antonym: beginning Etymology (Word Origin): Latin conclusio Click on link to watch video about the scientific method. methods.htm