1. Theory vs. Law

2. What is a Theory?
A theory is a well tested explanation for a set of observations or experimental result
Think about a theory as the cause of why something happens
Theories may be exceptionally complicated and complex

3. What is a Law?
A law is a statement that summarizes a pattern found in nature
A law is an accurate prediction about what will happen
Law describe naturally occurring events
For example the “law of gravity” says that if I drop an apple it will do what?
FALL!!
Does the law care why?? NO!!!!!

4. FAQ’s Can a theory become a law?
NO, the theory is the causation piece of the puzzle while the law is the effect piece
Once something is a law, can it be made not a law?
YES, if at any point the law says something should happen and it does not, then the law has been rejected, it must be revised or completely thrown out
How does something become a theory?
After many, tests, and experiments by independent researchers that all point to the same explanations

5. Preventing Bias
Sampling – a method of data collection that involves studying small amounts in order to learn about the larger whole
Ex: 1 science class is a sample of all the science classes
Bias – intentional or unintentional prejudice toward a specific outcome
Ex: equipment choices, hypothesis formation, prior knowledge
Blind study – the tester, the subject, or both do not know what is being tested
Ex: coke and pepsi test
Repetition – repeating an experiment many times to see if you get the same results.