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The document outlines the scientific method, emphasizing the importance of investigations in discovering new information and verifying findings. It details the steps involved in conducting an investigation, including formulating a clear question, ensuring fair testing, and identifying variables. Additionally, it provides guidance on processing results, forming conclusions, and accurately representing data through graphs.

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28 views

Topic 1

The document outlines the scientific method, emphasizing the importance of investigations in discovering new information and verifying findings. It details the steps involved in conducting an investigation, including formulating a clear question, ensuring fair testing, and identifying variables. Additionally, it provides guidance on processing results, forming conclusions, and accurately representing data through graphs.

Uploaded by

lukasfenni54
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Topic 1: Scientific Method

 investigations and Their Importance

Investigations help scientists and researchers:

o Discover new information.


o Explore the natural world and develop new ideas to explain it.
o Verify and validate the findings of other scientists to ensure accuracy
and reliability.

First Steps in an Investigation

4. Choosing the Right Question or Aim


 The investigation should have a clear and specific goal.
 Example: "How does temperature affect the rate of a
chemical reaction?"

5. Planning How to Collect Information or Data
 Decide on the best method for gathering data (e.g.,
experiments, surveys, observations).
 Identify tools and materials needed for the investigation.

Making a Test Fair (Fair Testing)

o A fair test ensures that only one factor (independent variable) is


changed while keeping all other conditions the same.
o Control variables are the factors that must remain constant.
o An appropriate control group is used for comparison to see if
changes are due to the tested variable.
Importance of a Zero Reading or Control

o A zero reading (baseline measurement) ensures accuracy in


measuring changes.
o A control helps determine if the observed effects are due to the
tested variable or other factors.
o Example: In a plant growth experiment, a plant without fertilizer
(control) is compared to a plant with fertilizer.

Identifying Variables

12. Independent Variable – The factor that is deliberately changed. (e.g.,


temperature in a reaction)
13. Dependent Variable – The factor that is measured or observed. (e.g.,
reaction rate)
14. Control Variables – Factors kept constant to ensure a fair test. (e.g.,
same type of reactants, same volume)

Distinguishing Between Variables

o Independent Variable: What you change.


o Dependent Variable: What you measure.
o Control Variables: What stays the same.
Direct and Inverse Proportionality

o Direct Proportionality: When one value increases, the other also


increases (e.g., more force leads to greater acceleration).
o Inverse Proportionality: When one value increases, the other
decreases (e.g., increasing resistance decreases current in an
electrical circuit).
Processing Results and Forming a Conclusion

20. Analyze Data: Organize results in tables and graphs.


21. Look for Patterns: Identify trends, relationships, and anomalies.
22. Compare with Predictions: Check if the results match the
hypothesis.
23. Draw a Conclusion: Summarize findings and determine if the
hypothesis was correct.
24. Evaluate the Investigation: Identify possible errors, improvements,
and future research possibilities.

Here are some everyday examples of independent and dependent variables:

25. Cooking Rice


 Independent Variable: The amount of water added.
 Dependent Variable: How soft the rice becomes.
26. Watching TV and Sleep
 Independent Variable: The number of hours spent watching
TV.
 Dependent Variable: How much sleep you get.
27. Using a Fan and Room Temperature
 Independent Variable: The speed of the fan.
 Dependent Variable: The temperature in the room.
28. Driving and Fuel Consumption
 Independent Variable: The distance driven.
 Dependent Variable: The amount of fuel used.
29. Charging a Phone
 Independent Variable: The time the phone is plugged in.
 Dependent Variable: The battery percentage.
30. Exercise and Weight Loss
 Independent Variable: The number of times a person
exercises in a week.
 Dependent Variable: The amount of weight lost.
31. Studying and Grades
 Independent Variable: The amount of time spent studying.
 Dependent Variable: The grade received on a test.
32. Music Volume and Concentration
 Independent Variable: The volume of the music.
 Dependent Variable: The level of concentration on a task.

Tip: The independent variable is what you change, and the dependent
variable is what you measure!Axes Selection:

o The independent variable (controlled variable) goes on the x-axis.


o The dependent variable (measured outcome) goes on the y-axis.
o Follow specific instructions if given.
 Graph Labeling:
o Title should be "Dependent Variable vs. Independent Variable".
o Both axes must be labeled with physical quantity and
unit (e.g., Time (s)).
 Data Representation:
o Column headings from a table should match axes labels.
o Choose a scale that utilizes more than half of the graph grid.
o Use sensible ratios for scaling (e.g., 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 units per 2 cm).
 Plotting Points:
o Mark points with crosses (×) or encircled dots (ʘ) (≤ 1 mm).
o Ensure points are accurately plotted to within half of the smallest
square on the grid.
 Best-Fit Line:
o Draw a single, thin, smooth line (straight or curve).
o Use a ruler for straight lines and freehand for curves.
 Accuracy:
o When readings fall between scale marks, estimate to the nearest
half-division.

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