Key Terms

You should do this!

Scientific Inquiry

The process of discovery in science.  Includes posing questions, developing hypotheses, collecting and interpreting data, drawing conclusions, and communicating ideas and results

Scientific questions

Can be answered by making observations.  Cannot be based on opinions, values, or judgments.

Hypotheses

Hypo = below, thesis = theory.  A possible explanation. (Not educated guess!)

Manipulated variable

The one thing that is purposely changed in a controlled experiment. Graphed on x-axis.

Responding variable

The change that happens when the MV is manipulated (y-axis).

Controlled Experiment

Only one variable is changed. The ideal situation.

Data

Facts, figures and evidence observed in an experiment.

Scientific Theory

A well tested explanation for observations, experimental results or scientific laws.

Scientific Law

Describes an event, but doesn’t explain why it happens.

See fig 3

Note design of inquiry.  It is non-linear.  There is constant feedback in the scientific method.  You can change things at any time if your data doesn’t support your hypothesis.

Summary

Do this at home!