Scientific Attitudes - Exploring the Mindset of Scientists PDF

Scientific Attitudes: Exploring the Mindset of Scientists Curiosity: The Spark of Science Definition: Curiosity is showing interest and paying attention to objects or events Scientists ask questions and seek answers Examples for 5th graders: Wondering why leaves change color in fall Asking how...

Scientific Attitudes: Exploring the Mindset of Scientists Curiosity: The Spark of Science Definition: Curiosity is showing interest and paying attention to objects or events Scientists ask questions and seek answers Examples for 5th graders: Wondering why leaves change color in fall Asking how rainbows form Honesty: The Foundation of Scientific Trust Honesty means giving truthful reports of observations Scientists don't hide important information Why it's important: Helps other scientists build on correct information Ensures experiments can be repeated Class discussion: Why is honesty important in science and everyday life?  Open-Mindedness: Embracing New Ideas Open-minded scientists: Listen to and respect others' ideas Accept criticism Change their minds when shown reliable evidence Example: Scientists once thought the Earth was flat, but changed their minds with new evidence  Skepticism: Questioning and Verifying Skepticism means basing conclusions on evidence Scientists question statements that don't have strong evidence How to be a good skeptic: Ask "How do we know this?" Look for proof or experiments that support claims Fun fact: Even gravity was questioned until it was proven!  Creativity: Thinking Outside the Box Scientists use creativity to: Come up with new ideas Solve problems in unique ways Design experiments Famous creative scientists: Albert Einstein (imagined riding on a light beam) Marie Curie (discovered radioactivity) Thank You For Today! See you in the next class!