Research Methods in Science

Questions and Answers

What is the general structure of an Aim in a scientific investigation?

To investigate the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable.

How is a hypothesis typically structured in scientific research?

A hypothesis is structured as an if/then statement, predicting the outcome of changes in the independent variable on the dependent variable.

Define 'hazard' and 'risk' in the context of a scientific research project.

A hazard is anything that may cause harm, while a risk is the potential injury or harm that may occur from that hazard.

List three key components that should be included in the 'Method' section of a scientific report.

The independent variable, dependent variable, controlled variables, and the equipment used. Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate way to record results from a scientific experiment?

Results should be recorded in an appropriate format such as a table or graph. Signup and view all the answers

What key aspects should be addressed in the Discussion section of a scientific report?

Interpretation of results, accuracy and reliability of data, problems encountered, and suggestions for future experiments. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the significance of using command verbs in writing the Method section.

Using command verbs ensures that each step is clear, concise, and easy to follow, facilitating replication of the experiment. Signup and view all the answers

What role do controlled variables play in an experiment?

Controlled variables are kept constant to ensure that any changes in the dependent variable are solely due to the manipulation of the independent variable. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Writing the Aim

Formulate as: To "verb" followed by independent and dependent variables.
Example: To investigate the relationship between the independent variable and dependent variable.

Writing the Hypothesis

Structure as an if/then statement.
Example: If a change occurs in the independent variable, then a consequent change will be observed in the dependent variable.

Writing the Risk Assessment

Hazard: Anything that can cause harm to an individual.
Risk: Potential harm or injury arising from a hazard during research.
Precaution: Measures implemented to minimize risks associated with the identified hazards.

Writing the ‘Method’ Section of the Report

Present the method as a series of steps, each beginning with a command verb.
Ensure each step is concise and straightforward for replication.
Include essential variables:
- Independent variable: The variable being altered.
- Dependent variable: The variable being measured or observed.
- Controlled variables: Variables kept constant, with exact amounts specified.
Specify the equipment to be used and detail how measurements of the dependent variable will be made.
Indicate the method for recording results, such as using tables or labeled diagrams.

Writing the ‘Results’ Section of the Report

Record the experimental results in a suitable format, such as tables or graphs.

Writing the ‘Discussion’ Section of the Report

Analyze the results and interpret their significance.
Evaluate the accuracy, validity, and reliability of the collected data.
Identify any problems encountered during the investigation.
Suggest alternative approaches or expansions for the experiment.

Writing the ‘Conclusion’ Section of the Report

Summarize findings by restating the Aim.
Identify patterns or trends in the results.
Provide supporting results that reinforce discoveries.
Determine whether the hypothesis was supported or rejected based on the outcomes.

Description

This quiz covers key components of writing in scientific research, including formulating an aim, crafting a hypothesis, and conducting a risk assessment. Understand how to articulate the relationship between variables and evaluate potential hazards in experimental design.