Science Basics
This branch of science studies living things.
Life Science
Using one or more senses to gather information.
Observation
The variable that the scientist purposely changes.
Independent variable
A possible explanation that can be tested by an investigation.
What is a hypothesis?
This is an explanation based on knowledge gained from many observations and investigations.
scientific theory
This type of Earth scientist studies weather and climate.
meterologist
A logical explanation based on observations and prior knowledge.
Inference
What variable is measured
dependent variable
Our class writes hypotheses using these two words.
if and then
This describes a pattern or rule found in nature.
scientific law
Chemistry and physics belong to this branch of science.
physical science
A statement about what you think will happen next.
Prediction
The variable that the scientist keeps the same
What are constants?
In an If–Then hypothesis, the “If” portion usually contains this variable.
Independent variable
Two scientists perform the same investigation and get similar results. This increases the ________ of the results.
credibility
Something that occurs over and over again is called this recurring theme.
What is a pattern
“The dog has brown fur and four legs.” Observation or inference?
observation
A student changes the amount of sunlight a plant receives and measures plant height. What is the IV?
Amount of sunlight
Complete the hypothesis: “If the amount of sunlight increases, then ________.”
Plant growth/height will increase.
Another scientist repeats an investigation and gets similar results. What has occurred?
Replication
A picture or representation of something that may be difficult to observe directly is called this.
Model
A thermometer reads 32°C and a student says, “The water is warm because it was sitting in sunlight.” Identify the observation AND inference.
Observation = 32°C; inference = sunlight caused it to be warm.
A student tests whether fertilizer affects plant growth. One plant receives no fertilizer. What does the 2nd plant represent?
Control Group
A student wants to know if exercise time affects heart rate. Write an appropriate hypothesis.
If exercise time increases, then heart rate will increase.
Two peer-reviewed studies disagree. Does this mean science has failed? Explain.
No. Scientists evaluate methods and evidence, conduct additional investigations, and revise explanations as the evidence develops.