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Scientific Method

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  • Process scientists use to gather information and attempt to answer questions.

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  • There are no set order of steps to this process, but all of the following components will be involved at one point or another.

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  • Usually begins with asking a question and/or attempting to solve a problem related to a phenomenon (something that occurs in nature).

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  • A hypothesis is a proposed possible explanation (with reason) of a phenomenon.

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  • Hypotheses MUST BE TESTED via scientific investigations (experiments) to prove their validity (correctness or incorrectness).

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Hypothesizing

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Experimentingโ€ฆInvestigating

  • All scientific investigations (experiments) should have the following components.
  • A control group (aka control)
    • The part of an experiment that is the standard against which results are compared.
  • An experimental group (aka test group)
    • The part of an experiment that is exposed to the independent variable.
  • Independent variable
    • The condition in the experiment that is being changed by the experimenter.
  • Dependent variable
    • The condition that is being observed/measured during the experiment.

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Observingโ€ฆ Gathering Data

  • Observation (fact)
    • Using the senses or scientific instrumentation in conjunction with the senses to gather data.
  • Inference (possible explanation)
    • A logical interpretation based on what scientists already know.
  • Two types of data
    • Qualitative
      • Descriptions of properties such as color, shape, texture, behavior, etc.
    • Quantitative
      • Numerical measurements such as time, height, volume, mass, etc.

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Check for Understanding

1. Make an observation.

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2. Make an inference based on your observation.

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3. Make a qualitative statement about the classroom.

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4. Make a quantitative statement about the classroom.

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5. Compare an independent variable to a dependent variable.

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Analysis

  • Involves organizing data into charts and/or graphs to interpret the data more readily (easier).๏ฟฝ๏ฟฝ
  • Involves reporting the interpretation of the data, also known as the results the scientific investigation.

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  • Conclusions may support the hypothesis, refute the hypothesis, or be inconclusive (neither supporting nor refuting).

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Conclusion

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Scientific Theory vs. Scientific Law

  • A theory is an explanation of a natural phenomenon that is supported by a large body of scientific evidence obtained from many different investigations and observations.
    • Ex. Big Bang Theory

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  • A law is a natural phenomenon that is generally known to be true.
    • Ex. Boyleโ€™s Law
    • Ex. Gravity?

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Science and Ethics

  • Ethics- moral principles and values held by humans.

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  • Science CANNOT answer all questions.
    • Good vs. evil
    • Ugly vs. beautiful

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  • Technology is the application of scientific research to societyโ€™s needs and problems.

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Video Recap