Scientific Method Law vs Theory Learning Targets 2

Scientific Method & Law vs. Theory

Learning Targets 2. I can identify and apply the common steps of scientific method. A. I can compare and contrast types of data. B. I can compare and contrast types of variables. C. I can describe the difference between a theory and a scientific law.

Scientific Method ● A set of steps used to approach a problem ● There are many different pathways to use o There is no one right way to use it

Observations ● QUANTITATIVE o USING NUMBERS OR MATHEMATICS TO DESCRIBE WHAT IS HAPPENING o THINK “QUANTITY” ● QUALITATIVE DESCRIBING WITH WORDS AN OBSERVATION ● THINK “QUALITY” ●

List 2 quantitative and 2 qualitative observations

Independent Variable ● the manipulated variable ● a factor that is intentionally changed in the experiment by the scientist conducting the test Dependent Variable ● The factor being measured in the experiment ● Changes as a result of a change in the independent variable

Example An entomologist (bug scientist) wants to determine if temperature changes how many times a cricket chirps. Independent Variable? Temperature Dependent Variable? Number of times a cricket chirps

Theories vs. Laws Theory Law of Gravity Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection

Theory ● well-tested explanation that makes sense of a great variety of scientific observations Law ● a generalized rule to explain a body of observations in the form of a verbal or mathematical statement. ● Does not state “why” it happens.