Download LN #1 Sci Method

LN # 1
Scientific Methods
Science
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The word science comes from the Latin verb
meaning “to know”.
In science observations lead to questions
about the natural world.
The questions need to be answered with
evidence that can be measured or observed.
Hypothesis
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Observations lead to hypothesis.
A hypothesis is a temporary explanation for a
question or a problem.
Hypothesis are not proven they are
supported or rejected based on experimental
results.
A hypothesis can be changed or modified.
Scientist design experiments that could
possibly reject their hypothesis.
Experiments
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An experiment is used to test a hypothesis.
An experiment needs to be designed in a way
that it can be repeated.
Also the results need to be clear.
Designing an Experiment
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An experiment has a control group and an
experimental group.
The control group and the experimental group have
all conditions the same except for the condition
being tested.
The conditions that are kept the same are called
constants.
The control group is important because the results
of the experimental group are compared to the
control group.
Independent and Dependent
variables
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In a controlled experiment only one factor is
changed, this is called the independent
variable.
The independent variable affects the
outcome of the experiment.
The dependent variable is the effect caused
by the independent variable.
The dependent variable is measured to
obtain experimental results.
Theories and Laws
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A theory comes from continued verification of a
hypothesis.
A theory is supported by a large amount of
evidence.
Theories are widely accepted.
Laws are facts of nature.
The words theory and law can be used
interchangeably.
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Newton’s theory of gravity is also called the law of gravity.
Summary
Write an 8 sentence summary about the lecture
notes.
Your summary should answer the following:
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How do scientist answer questions?
What is a hypothesis?
What are experiments used for?
What two groups are needed in an experiment?
What are constants?
What is an independent variable?
What is a dependent variable?
What is a theory?