Foundations in Science

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What is an organism?

Back

An individual living creature.

Front

List characteristics shared by living organisms.

Back

Respond to their environment, grow and change, reproduce and have offspring, have complex chemistry, maintain homeostasis, are built of cells, pass traits to offspring.

Front

Steps of the Scientific Method

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1. Make observations and identify a problem or ask a question. 2. Research to gather information. 3. Develop a hypothesis. 4. Experiment to gather data. 5. Analyze data. 6. Draw a conclusion. 7. Share results.

Front

What are controls in scientific experiments?

Back

Subjects not tested during the investigation to limit variables that can affect results.

Front

Define independent variables.

Back

Factors controlled by the experimenter (changed or tested) to determine their relationship with an observed phenomenon.

Front

Define dependent variables.

Back

Observed phenomena that change in response to the independent variable. (what is measured).

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What is a scientific theory?

Back

A well-tested and widely accepted explanation of how something in nature behaves.

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What is a scientific law?

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A rule describing the behavior of something in nature, often a mathematical equation.

Front

Dress code for lab safety

Back

Wear PPE, tie back long hair, secure jewelry and clothing, and wear appropriate shoes.

Front

Preparation for lab work

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Read all directions, discuss procedures, follow instructions, and ensure understanding before proceeding.