Questions and Answers
What is the root meaning of the word 'science'?
knowledge
Which of the following are characteristics of contemporary science? (Select all that apply)
Scientific attitudes include curiosity and open-mindedness.
True
Name one basic science process skill.
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Match the following steps of the scientific method with their descriptions:
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The variable being manipulated in an experiment is called the ______.
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What does 'qualitative data' refer to?
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What is a hypothesis?
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Study Notes
Meaning of Science
- Originates from "scientia," Latin for "knowledge."
- A collection of organized knowledge and facts verified by sensory evidence and personal experience.
- Historical study of science aids in understanding the present, guiding future courses, and recognizing knowledge limitations.
Nature of Science
- Contemporary science involves understanding the physical universe through observable data, logic, and repeated experimentation.
- Key characteristics include:
- Use of empirical evidence from senses
- Critical data analysis with suspended judgment
- Logical reasoning:
- Inductive thinking: moves from specific observations to general conclusions.
- Deductive thinking: starts with general principles to predict specific outcomes.
Scientific Attitudes
- Curiosity: Drive to learn and explore.
- Objectivity: Impartial consideration of facts.
- Open-mindedness: Willingness to consider new ideas.
- Perseverance: Persistence in the face of challenges.
- Humility: Recognition of one’s limitations.
- Acceptance of failure: Learning from mistakes.
- Skepticism: Questioning the validity of claims.
- Intellectual honesty: Commitment to truthfulness in scientific inquiry.
Science as a Process
- Involves discovering fundamental abilities and integrated skills displayed through research.
- Basic Science Process Skills:
- Observing, Inferring, Measuring, Classifying, Communicating, Using number relationships.
- Integrated Science Process Skills:
- Identifying and controlling variables, Defining operationally, Formulating hypotheses, Interpreting data, Experimenting, Formulating models.
Science as a Product
- Steps in the scientific method:
- Observe: Initial observation of phenomena.
- Question: Identifying a problem or query.
- Research: Sourcing existing information or answers.
- Hypothesize: Formulating a testable hypothesis.
- Experiment: Designing and conducting an experiment.
- Test hypothesis: Evaluating hypothesis against experimental results.
- Draw conclusions: Making interpretations based on findings.
- Report: Sharing results and conclusions.
Example Scenario
- Experiment to determine the best soil for sunflower growth using different soil types (sandy, loam, clay), ensuring consistent care (fertilizer, moisture, sunlight).
- Problem posed: Which soil type yields the best plant growth?
- Hypothesis formed: Loam soil is predicted to be the most effective for sunflower growth.
Scientific Method Overview
- Involves a logical, coherent series of actions addressing inquiries about the world.
- Steps include making observations (qualitative and quantitative data), formulating hypotheses, and conducting controlled experiments.
- Importance of distinguishing between independent (manipulated) variable and control setups that remain unchanged during experiments.
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Description
This quiz explores the meaning and nature of science, delving into its historical context and key characteristics. It also examines scientific attitudes that promote curiosity, objectivity, and open-mindedness in the pursuit of knowledge. Prepare to test your understanding of how science shapes our world.
