1. Scientific Method and the Metric System

2. Science as a Process Steps of the Scientific Method
Involves making observations, asking questions, forming hypotheses, making predictions, designing experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions

3. Scientific Method Steps
Step 1: State Problem or Question
Observation – using all senses to gather information
Inference – assumption based on observation

4. Scientific Method Steps
Step 2: Gather information
Accuracy (correct ) vs. Precision (closeness of measurements together)
Quantitative (1 cm, 45 kg, etc.) vs. Qualitative (cloudy, fuzzy, blue, etc.)
Step 3: Form Hypothesis
Hypothesis - proposed explanation for the way a particular aspect of the natural world functions.
If … Then Statement
If he studies his biology notes every night, then he will pass the biology Keystone exam.

5. Scientific Method Steps
Step 4: Test Hypothesis
Performing the Experiment
A controlled experiment compares an experimental group and a control group and only has one variable.
1. Control group - provides a normal standard against which the biologist can compare results of the experimental group.
2. Experimental group is identical to the control group except for one factor.
Independent variable – intentionally changed
Dependent variable - affected by the independent variable
Experiment should be repeated and completed without bias

6. Scientific Method Steps
Step 5: State Conclusion
Hypothesis must be accepted or rejected through data from experiment
When writing conclusion:
Hypothesis must be stated
Include data that accepts/rejects hypothesis
Step 6: Share Results
Publish results in scientific journal to share with community

7. Quick Review
List the steps of the scientific method in the correct order.
1. _____________________________________________________
2. _____________________________________________________
3. _____________________________________________________
4. _____________________________________________________
5. _____________________________________________________
6. _____________________________________________________

8. Theory vs. Law
Theory - set of related hypotheses confirmed to be true many times, and it can explain a great amount of data
Law – general statement that describes a wide variety of phenomena under specific set conditions

9. Units of Measurement Base and Other Units
Scientists use a single, standard system of measurement, called the metric system
King Henry (KHDSDCM) – use for conversions
Kilo (k)
Hecto (h)
Deca (da)
Standard (m,l,g)
Deci (d)
Centi (c)
Milli (m)
Ex. 18m = 1800cm
Ex. 2.4dag = 0.024kg

10. Quick Review Using King Henry complete the following conversions:
12 g = ______________ cg
.75 dL = ____________ daL
1346 hm = ____________ m

11. Units of Measurement Base and Other Units
Metric system has seven base units
Commonly used ones for this course:
Meter (m) – distance
Liter (L) – liquid measurement
Gram (g) - weight