Week 2

Definitions:

The Scientific Method consists of procedures for the systematic pursuit of knowledge involving the recognition and formulation of a problem, the collection of data through observation and experiment, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses.

The hypothesis is an educated guess as to what will happen during your experiment. The hypothesis is often written using the words "IF" and "THEN." For example, "If I do not study, then I will fail the test.

A hypothesis must be able to be disproved.

A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world that can incorporate laws, hypotheses and facts. The theory of gravitation, for instance, explains why apples fall from trees and astronauts float in space.

1. Observing

This is the most basic skill in science. Observations are made by using the 5 senses. Good observations are essential in learning the other science process skills.

Examples:

• The learner will be blind folded and make observations using the sense of touch.

• The learner will create observations about a coin using the 5 senses.

• The learner will mix primary colors to create more colors.

Observational Skills: Focus on Drawing

While photography is quicker, drawing forces the viewer to carefully observe the subject and ask questions about details.

Engineering Drawing Basics: https://fractory.com/engineering-drawing-basics/

https://www.instagram.com/tv/B99mITpBug-/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

2. Classifying

After making observations it is important to notice similarities, differences, and group objects according to a purpose. It is important to create order to help comprehend the number of objects, events, and living things in the world.

Examples:

• The learner will use a magnet to classify objects as magnetic or nonmagnetic.

• The learner will use a balance and sort objects according to mass.

• The learner will combine different liquids with water to determine which is more or less dense.

3. Measuring

Measuring is important in collecting, comparing, and interpreting data. It helps us classify and communicate with others. The metric system should be used to help understand the scientific world.

Examples:

• The learner will find the mass of different liquids that have the same volume.

• The learner will use technology to find the speed of a toy truck.

• The learner will measure the distance a marble travels.

4. Inferring

An inference is an explanation based on an observation. It is a link between what is observed and what is already known.

Examples:

• The learner will write a conclusion at the end of each investigation.

• The learner will create inferences about observations they made about a mystery object. I infer it is solid rather than hollow.

5. Predicting

What do you think will happen? It is an educated guess based on good observations and inferrences about an observed event or prior knowledge.

Examples:

• The learner will predict what is a box based on observations using the sense of touch.

• The learner will write a hypothesis about the effect of increasing the salt on the buoyancy of an egg.

6. Communicating

It is important to be able to share our experiences. This can be done with graphs, diagrams, maps, and spoken word.

Examples:

• The learner will create a line graph showing the relationship between speed and the mass of a marble.

• The learner will discuss possible errors with other classmates.

Planning Investigations: Variables in Science

Independent Variable- What is changed by the scientist

Dependent Variable- What is measured in response to changes in the independent variable

Controlled Variable- What is held constant to make it a 'fair' test

Identifying Variables: https://www.slideshare.net/kimiworley/identifying-variables-8818441

Parts of an Investigation:

• Hypothesis

• Asking a Testable Question

• Materials and Methods

• Observations and Data

• Discussion