What Science Is and Is Not
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What is the goal of science?
making observations to understand and explain nature and using that understanding to make predictions
Evidence Based on Observation
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What does observation involve?
Observation involves using one or more of the senses (sight, hearing, taste, touch, smell) to gather information. The information gathered through observation is called data.
The information gathered from observation is called evidence, or ________.
data
Types of Observations
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| Type of observation | Observations involve | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative | Numbers | counting cells in a specimen |
| Qualitative |
Characteristics that cannot be easily measured or counted | color of a leaf |
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What is an inference?
An inference is a logical interpretation of data.
What is a hypothesis?
A hypothesis is a possible explanation for a set of observations or an answer to a scientific problem.
Multiple Choice!
you might find out the hypothesis was worthless!
you might find that it is partly true but needs some revision.
You may just need to adjust the hypothesis a little.
you might find that it is completely wrong.
you might discover that the hypothesis is supported by evidence.
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What are the variables in an experiment?
factors that can be changed
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| Type of Variable | Definition |
|---|---|
| Manipulated | variable that is deliberately changed |
| Responding |
varibale that is observed; Changes as a result of the manipulated variable |
How a Theory Develops
In science, what is a theory?
When a particular hypothesis becomes well supported by evidence from numerous investigations, scientists will consider it a theory.
True or False?
A Common Measurement System
Why do scientists need a common system of measurement?
A common system of measurement allows for easier sharing and comparing of data.
What system of measurement do most scientists use?
the metric system
What is the metric system?
The metric system is a decimal system of measurement whose units are based on multiples of 10.
Adapted from a Georgia Virtual Learning activity