Scientific Method and Variables

Scientific Questions

• A scientific question is objective and testable.
• A good scientific question is specific and has a clear focus.
• It focuses on an independent variable and a dependent variable.
• A scientific question can be answered using measured or observed data.

Scientific Experiments

• A scientific experiment uses the scientific method.
• Scientists manipulate the independent variable and measure the dependent variable.
• Controlled variables are kept constant throughout an experiment.
• Controls are used to assess the validity of the experiment.

Variables

• The independent variable is manipulated by the researcher, and the dependent variable changes as a result.
• Independent variables are often denoted as 'x', while dependent variables are denoted as 'y'.
• Confounding variables can influence the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
• Extraneous variables are any factor that might affect the dependent variable, such as demand characteristics or experimenter effects.
• Control variables are kept consistent for all participants, while moderator variables can influence the strength of the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

Control Groups

• Experiments have at least one control group and one test group.
• The control group provides a standard for comparison.
• Positive controls receive a treatment that is expected to elicit a response, while negative controls receive no treatment.
• Placebos are a common type of negative control.

Scientific Experiment Design

• A good scientific experiment answers a question, provides objective results, and controls for multiple variables.
• Frederick Griffith's experiments led to the discovery of a transforming principle.
• Oswald Avery designed an experiment to identify the transforming principle, controlling for multiple variables and providing objective results.
• Avery's work demonstrated that DNA was the transforming principle.

Understanding Data Tables

• Scan the table before reading the questions to understand the data.
• Verify the concepts presented in the table.
• Try to answer the question on your own before looking at the choices.

Interpreting Graphs and Charts

• Orient yourself to the x- and y-axes and understand the units.
• Identify the trends in the data.
• Try to answer the question without looking at the answer choices.

Data Visualization

• Different types of data visualizations are suitable for different types of data.
• Bar graphs are useful for discrete categories, while line graphs show changes over time.
• Pie charts represent data categories that make up a whole.

Argumentative Essays

• Argumentative essays contain a claim (argument), reasons, evidence, and counterclaims.
• The standard format is an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• An effective argument addresses the audience's needs and concerns.

CER (Claim, Evidence, Reasoning)

• A claim answers a question and is supported by evidence and reasoning.
• Evidence is factual information that supports the claim.
• Reasoning explains how and why the evidence supports the claim.

The Scientific Method

• The scientific method includes observation, questioning, research, hypothesis formation, experimentation, data analysis, and concluding.
• A hypothesis is a testable statement.
• A scientific theory is supported by a large body of research and explains a phenomenon.
• A scientific law describes how something is true, often using mathematical formulas.

Models and Simulations

• Models are used to understand complex systems.
• Models can be used to predict future events through simulations.
• Models are used to explain and predict, and must be consistent.
• There are mental, expressive, and consensus model types.

Conceptual Models

• Conceptual models are used to simplify systems and concepts.
• They are often visual and involve abstraction.
• Conceptual models are used across diverse fields.
• They provide a shared understanding and reference point for future use.