1. Scientific Method Vocabulary

2. Science:
Knowledge about the natural world derived from observations and experiments. The purpose of science is to make discoveries about the world around us.

3. Observation:
Using your 5 senses: seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, touching.
Inference:
These are attempts to explain or make sense of observations. An inference has a cause and effect in it.

4. Controlled Experiment:
An experiment in which variables are controlled to make results reliable and the experiment fair. You attempt to control every variable except one.

5. Qualitative Observations:
Do not involve numbers or measurement. (bigger/smaller, color, yes/no)
Quantitative Observation:
Do involve numbers or measurement. (3 mL, 4 cm, 6 pieces)

6. Prediction:
Telling about something in advance.
Hypothesis:
An assumption to be tested. A statement that needs to be proven.
Investigative Questions:
Scientific questions that ask: why, what if, when, how, and can it happen again.

7. Talk to your partner…
What is the difference between a prediction and a hypothesis?
What is the difference between an observation and an inference?
After discussing each question, write your answers on the back of your notes.