Scientific Method & Models

An experiment that tests only one factor/variable at a time

• independent variable

• inference

• controlled experiment

• life science

A series of steps followed to solve problems & answer questions (at any step you can go back & repeat the process)

• life science

• dependent variable

• controlled experiment

• Scientific Methods (Scientific Process)

An explanation that is based on prior scientific research or observations that can be tested

• hypothesis

• inference

• life science

• theory

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

An explanation that ties together many hypotheses & observations, they have been known to change

• variable

• theory

• inference

• hypothesis

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-2

A toy rocket, a globe or a plastic skeleton

• physical model

• dependent variable

• life science

• prediction

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-4

The outcome factor: this variable may change in response to manipulations of the independent variable.

• Scientific Methods (scientific process)

• dependent variable

• independent variable

• control

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS3-1

An explanation of how a system works or is organized; a few examples include the water cycle or a food web,

• independent variable

• physical model

• conceptual model

• controlled experiment

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

A logical interpretation based on prior knowledge & experience.

• controlled experiment

• life science

• independent variable

• inference

A summary of many experimental results & observations; it tells us what happens, but not why it happens, many of these start out as theories.

• Scientific Methods

• law (scientific law)

• variable

• theory

The experimental factor that is manipulated; the variable whose effect is being studied

• control

• independent variable

• dependent variable

• life science