1. The Role of Theories, Laws, Hypotheses, and Models

2. WHAT is a theory?

3. SCIENTIFIC THEORY
A scientific explanation to a pattern in the natural world
Many observations and much evidence is needed in order to create a valid theory.
Scientific investigation is a key part when creating theories.
Theories may be supported by scientific evidence but may be incorrect.
Evidence may change with time; better technology
Example: Geocentric (earth in middle of solar system) to Heliocentric model (sun in middle of solar system)

4. SCIENTIFIC THEORY Modern Atomic Theory The Big Bang Theory
Listed below are some examples of Science Theories:
Modern Atomic Theory
The Big Bang Theory
The Theory of Evolution
The Theory of Gravity
Cell Theory
Plate Tectonic Theory

5. SCIENCE THEORY SCIENCE EVERYDAY VS.
Not a guess, hunch, hypothesis, or speculation.
Based on the hypotheses and evidence
All knowledge must have peer review and verification.
Is a point of view
Is a belief system
Theory may vary among the different cultures.

6. KNOWLEDGE CHECK What is a Scientific Theory?
Give an example of a Scientific Theory which has changed over time.
What is the difference between a Scientific Theory and an Everyday Theory? Give an example of both.

7. KNOWLEDGE CHECK
What is a Scientific Theory? A scientific explanation to a pattern in the natural world
Give an example of a Scientific Theory which has changed over time. Arrangement of the solar system (geocentric to heliocentric)
What is the difference between a Scientific Theory and an Everyday Theory? Give an example of both. Science – based on experimentation and research (Example: Newton’s Laws of Motion); Everyday – based on thought and opinion (Example: Who may have committed a robbery).

8. LAWs in Science

9. Scientific Laws Based on nature; referred to as “Laws of Nature”
Countless experiments have been done to prove a natural phenomenon.
Laws of Nature have validity everywhere
Laws of Nature can not usually be changed
EXAMPLES OF LAWS OF NATURE:
Newton’s Laws of Motion
Law of the Conservation of Matter

10. Scientific MODELs

11. MODELS
Models are a visual representation that help scientists study something in more depth.
Models can be used for the following:
Study objects that are too small to see
Study objects that are too large to see
Help explain the past and the present
Help predict the future

12. MODELS PHYSICAL EXAMPLES Models that you can touch
Representation of an item they want to study
Models may have some limitations.
Because we may not see an actual picture, models are thoughts and ideas from our heads.
EXAMPLES
Model of an atom
Solar System
Crash-Test Dummies

13. KNOWLEDGE CHECK List 3 reasons why scientists use models.
What are the two main types of scientific models?
Give an example of each model and a downfall for each.

14. KNOWLEDGE CHECK
List 3 reasons why scientists use models. To see some items which are too small; help predict the future; help represent the past.
What are the two main types of scientific models? Physical and Mathematical
Give an example of each model and a downfall for each. Physical: Map, downfall the distances are different on a globe then on a map; Mathematical: Force = mass x acceleration, downfall a computer may be relied upon to calculate the answer.