Experimental Design and Scientific Method

Mr. Mormon's lesson focuses on experimental design within the scientific method. Key scientific terms such as theory, hypothesis, and observation are explained. The lesson details the structure of controlled experiments, emphasizing the importance of variables and constants. Characteristics of a good experiment, including repeatability, large sample size, and peer review, are discussed. The lesson concludes with an analysis of example questions from state exams, highlighting the application of these concepts.

What is the primary focus of lesson three in the nature of science?

• Experimental design

• The history of science

• The role of technology in science

• The impact of science on society

In scientific terms, what does a theory represent?

• A random guess

• A hypothesis that has been proven false

• An untested idea

• A well-supported explanation of natural events

What is the role of a control group in an experiment?

• To ensure the experiment is biased

• To act as a baseline for comparison

• To introduce new variables

• To receive the experimental treatment

What are constants in an experiment?

• Variables that change during the experiment

• Factors that are kept the same in all setups

• The results of the experiment

• The main focus of the experiment

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a good experiment?

• It has a large sample size

• It is peer-reviewed

• It tests multiple independent variables simultaneously

• It is repeatable

Why is it important for an experiment to be peer-reviewed?

• To ensure the experiment is expensive

• To confirm the accuracy of the results

• To make the experiment more complex

• To limit the number of participants

In the bean seed experiment, what was the independent variable?

• The type of soil used

• The location of the pots

• The amount of water each pot received

• The type of seeds used

What is a good hypothesis for the yeast and ethanol experiment?

• If the temperature remains constant, yeast will produce no ethanol

• If the temperature decreases, yeast will produce less ethanol

• If the temperature increases, yeast will produce more ethanol

• If the temperature fluctuates, yeast will stop producing ethanol

In the yeast experiment, what should be kept constant?

• The type of plant material and yeast used

• The temperature of the environment

• The amount of ethanol produced

• The duration of the experiment

What is the main goal of science according to the lesson?

• To prove all hypotheses correct

• To solve problems and find answers

• To create complex experiments

• To disprove all existing theories