1. Scientific Method Series of steps followed to solve problems Steps
Observation/Question
Hypothesis
Experiment
Collect data
Conclusion

2. Hypothesis
An explanation that is based on prior scientific research or observations
Can be tested

3. Infer
Making an interpretation based on observations and prior knowledge

4. Constant
Something that remains unchanged during an experiment

5. Directly Proportional
When one measurement increases, the other measurement increases
When one measurement decreases, the other measurement decreases

6. Inversely Proportional
When one measurement increases, the other measurement decreases
When one measurement decreases, the other measurement increases

7. Analyze
To examine carefully and in detail to identify causes, key factors, possible results, etc.

8. Controlled Experiment
An experiment that tests only one factor at a time by comparing a control group with an experimental group

9. Independent Variable
One factor that a scientist changes during an experiment

10. Dependent Variable
Factor that changes as a result of the changes to the independent variable in an experiment

11. Theory
An explanation that ties together many hypotheses and observations
Examples
Theory of Plate Tectonics
Big Bang Theory

12. Law A summary of many experimental results and observations
Tells how things work
Examples
Newton’s Laws of Motion
Law of Conservation of Mass