1. Observation Notes
Cornell Notes

2. Essential Questions:
1. How do scientists observe the world around them?
2. How do scientists share their ideas with others?

3. vocabulary Control/constant Law Data Model Qualitative observation
Dependant/respondin g variable
Hypothesis
Independent/manipula ted variable
Infer
Interpretation
Law
Model
Qualitative observation
Quantitative observation
Scientific method
Theory
Variable

4. Qualitative – descriptions (Mary has red hair.)
Quantitative – numbers (Mary was walking two dogs today.)
When doing observations we ask:
“Who” is that
“What” is that
“When” is that happening
“Where” is that taking place

5. Observation: the fact, the cat is lying on the ground
Inference – logical conclusion based on reasoning
The cat is dead.
The cat is asleep.
Why is the cat asleep? The cat is asleep because he is tired.
Interpretation – observation plus our personal value system
The cat is so cute!

6. You will observe the following picture for a few seconds.
Look at everything you think might be important.

8. Are there cars parked on the sides of the road?
What color is the pickup truck driving in the road?
Any minivans around?
What does the blue sign say?
What's the speed limit?
Are there any pedestrians on the road?
How observant were you??? 8

9. Where’s Waldo? 9

11. Scientific Method Notes9

12. Essential Questions: 1. Why do scientists use the scientific method?
2. What are the 6 steps of the Scientific Method?
3. What are the different types of variables in an experiment?

13. Scientific Method
Scientists use their observations to come up with questions and use the answers to solve problems. Scientists develop and TEST ideas using a systematic, step by step approach called the scientific method.
In other words, it’s a way to solve a problem.

14. Step 1: Posing Questions
Define the focus of the research
Observe the world around you using all senses to gather information.
Read books or other scientists’ research
Make sure your question is scientific
Can be answered with evidence
NOT answered with an opinion

15. Step 2: Develop a hypothesis
A hypothesis is a testable, educated guess to answer your question or is a possible solution to the problem based on your research or observations
Your prediction, use “I think…”
Must be TESTABLE!!

16. Step 3: Design an Experiment
Parts of an experiment:
Parameter: something that can be measured
The parameter being tested is the manipulated variable or independent variable. This is what you are manipulating or changing on purpose
The parameter that you are measuring is called the responding variable or dependent variable. It changes in response to or because of the manipulated variable

17. Step 3: Design an Experiment (cont)
The parameters that don’t change are called the controls or constants. Your control group is used for comparison.
The controls DO NOT change so you can be more sure that your manipulated variable CAUSED your responding variable to change,
A controlled experiment is an investigation where only ONE parameter is manipulated at a time.

18. Step 4: Collecting and Analyze Data
Data are the facts figures and other evidence gathered through observations
As you collect the data you got from your experiment, write it down.
Organize your data into a chart, table, or graph
Use pictures or photos to explain your results
Analyze your data by writing a summary of what happened in your experiment.

19. Step 5: Draw Conclusions
Do the results of your experiment support your hypothesis or not?
A conclusion states whether or not the data supports the hypothesis.
Do you need to revise your hypothesis and retest?

20. Step 6: Communicate your results to others
Share what you found out from your experiment
Scientists make presentations and write papers so others can repeat their experiments

21. Step 6: Communicate your results to others (cont.)
Scientists use models, theories and laws to explain to people how the natural world works.
Model: a picture, diagram or other representation when the real thing is not easy to see
Theory: a conclusion backed up by many scientists with the same results
Law: a theory that has been proven over and over again. A “rule” of nature.