Scientific Inquiry Basics

Communicate results

• By sharing data, scientists can ensure their findings are kept secret.

• By exchanging information, scientists can evaluate and test other's work and make faster progress in their own research.

• By publishing their work, scientists can avoid collaboration with others.

• By presenting their results, scientists can focus solely on their own research.

Scientific law

• a rule that describes a pattern in nature. It explains something WILL happen but not why

• a theory that explains why something happens

• a hypothesis that is yet to be tested

• a principle that can be applied universally in all situations

Inference

• A logical interpretation based on prior knowledge and experience.

• A statement that can be proven true or false.

• A random guess without any basis.

• A conclusion drawn from a single observation.

Dependent variable

• A factor or condition that might be affected as a result of a change

• A variable that is manipulated in an experiment

• A constant that remains unchanged throughout the experiment

• A measurement that is taken before the experiment begins

Constants

• the factors in an experiment that remain the same

• the variables that change during an experiment

• the results obtained from an experiment

• the equipment used in an experiment

Prediction

• a statement of what will happen next in a series of events

• a guess based on random chance

• a conclusion drawn from past experiences

• a detailed analysis of current trends

Independent variable

• A factor or condition that is changed by a scientist in an experiment.

• A variable that remains constant throughout the experiment.

• A measurement that is taken during the experiment.

• A factor that is observed and measured in response to changes.

Observation

• A fact you can prove using your 5 senses

• A personal opinion or belief

• A guess based on intuition

• A conclusion drawn from assumptions

Control group

• The group that receives the treatment or intervention.

• The standard of comparison (The group without the Independent Variable).

• The group that is exposed to the independent variable.

• The group that is monitored for changes over time.

Hypothesis

• A definitive conclusion drawn from experiments

• A possible explanation for a set of observations or answer to a scientific question; must be testable

• A random guess about the outcome of an experiment

• A statement that cannot be tested scientifically