1. Tools of Environmental Science ch.2 Sec.1 pg.32

2. Experimental Method
Consists of a series of steps that scientists worldwide use to identify and answer questions.

3. 1st Step: Observation
Noun – a piece of information we gather with our senses
To observe – take in information with the senses
Tools are used to take in information: rulers,
microscopes, satellites, other examples?
Includes researching topic of interest

4. 2nd – Hypothesize and Predict
Hypothesis - A testable idea that leads to an investigation
Follows from what is already known – NOT a guess!
A general statement that offers an explanation of a problem that has been observed
Can be supported or contradicted by experimentation

5. Prediction Describes what will happen in a specific situation
Logical statement about what will happen if the hypothesis is correct
Q: what is the difference between a hypothesis and a prediction?

6. Experiment
Step by step procedure designed to test a hypothesis under controlled conditions
Should be designed to identify cause and effect relationships
A single variable is tested and a control is used

7. Variable – factor being studied
independent variable – factor being test and adjusted . Affects the outcome of the experiment
Dependent variable – the second factor that is being measured as a result of the independent variable. It changes as the independent variable changes.
Constant – a factor that remains fixed during the experiment
Ex.’s – towel experiment, growth hormone

8. Experimental Group The group that receives the experimental treatment
Exposed to the factor being tested

9. Control Group The group that does NOT receive the treatment
Provides basis for comparison

10. Scientific Methods Organize and analyze data Draw conclusions
Repeat experiments
Communicate results
Examine correlations - associations between two or more events.
Tree Ring ex. Pg.37

11. Scientific Habits of Mind
Curiosity
Skeptiscism
Openness to new ideas
Intellectual honesty
Imagination and creativity

12. “There are two possible outcomes: If the result confirms the hypothesis, then you’ve made a measurement. If the result is contrary to the hypothesis, then you’ve made a discovery”
Enrico Fermi

13. “Imagination is more important than knowledge
“Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.”

14. The End