Graphing and conclusions

Hypothesis, theory, and law

Skill 4: Know which type of graph to use for each type of data...discrete, continuous, or parts of a whole.

Discrete data - data which falls clearly into one category or another. Bar graphs are good for discrete data.

Example: In the bar graph, a pet is either a rabbit, dog, cat, goldfish, or hamster. There is no "in between" category such as a "catdog!"

Continuous data - data in which you can find a point between two other data points.

Example: If you have one data point at 3 and another at 5, you can find the point 4 in between them. You should draw a line from 3 to 5, which passes through 4.

Pie graphs show parts of a whole. The sum of all parts must add up to 100%.

Example: What percent of Mrs. Baker's classes like oranges the best?

Do this!

Graphing practice - If you prefer a paper copy, come ask, otherwise...

To complete this activity electronically, click here. When it pulls up, look at the top center of the page. You will see, "Open with" and a drop down arrow. Click the down arrow and choose the first option, "Annotate with Kami." Click on the paintbrush on the left and write with a pencil on your screen.

Choice Chart.pdf

Have your graphs checked by a teacher.

Skill 5: Draw an appropriate conclusion from a graph.

Once the data is analyzed, a conclusion is drawn which is justified by the data. It's like the missing piece of the puzzle which ties everything together, once set into place.

Do this in your science notebook!

Draw a conclusion for each of the following graphs.

Check your answers with the answer key.

Skill 6: I can differentiate between a hypothesis, law, and theory.

Hypothesis = testable idea

I wonder what would happen if...

If...I change this(IV), then...this will happen(DV)

(DV) depends on (IV)

(IV) affects (DV)

Use the flower diagram to write a hypothesis in your science notebook.

A law is a description of an observed phenomenon.

Theory

A theory is an idea to explain a law, or observed natural phenomenon. A hypothesis which is very well supported from a variety of sources will eventually become a theory. One scientist cannot create a theory; he can only create a hypothesis.

Do this in your science notebook!

The word 'theory' in science is not used the same as in conversational English.

1) Use the word theory in a sentence, not within the context of science.

Example: I have a theory that John will ask Meghan to the prom at lunch today.

2) Explain how that use is not correct in a scientific context.

Example: I'm just making a guess that John will ask Meghan to the prom at lunch today. I don't have any support for my 'theory' and it is not a testable idea.

3) Have another team check your sentence and explanation.

Click here to see if you know the vocabulary for this learning target.

Click here to take the formative quiz on skills 4-6.