1.1 Scientific Method/Notes Study Guide

prediction

A logical statement about what will happen if the hypothesis is correct.

Hypothesis

A testable prediction, often implied by a theory

Scientific Method

a method of procedure that has characterized natural science since the 17th century, consisting in systematic observation, measurement, and experiment, and the formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses.

experiment

a scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact.

Theory

a supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained.

DNA

deoxyribonucleic acid

qualitative data

descriptive data

manipulated variable

factor in an experiment that a scientist purposely changes; also known as independent variable

responding variable

factor in an experiment that a scientist wants to observe, which may change in response to the manipulated variable; also known as a dependent variable

evidence

the available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid.

scientific investigation

the process by which a scientist asks a question about the natural world, collects and analyzes data to help answer that question, and communicates the results to the scientific community

research

the systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.

Science

An organized way of gathering and analyzing evidence about the natural world.

Quantitative data

Data associated with mathematical models and statistical techniques used to analyze spatial location and association.

Observation

The act of noticing and describing events or processes in a careful, orderly way.

Data

information gathered from observations