UNIT # 1 - Scientific Inquiry
General Resources:
Benchmark Specific Resources:
I can …
1. Develop or recognize an experimentally testable question when given a scenario or data table.
2. Select the best hypothesis (based on being testable, presenting conditions, prediction, and assumptions, accounting for independent and dependent variables).
3. Relate charts or graphs to the support of hypotheses or conclusions.
4. Identify independent and dependent variables.
5. Differentiate between the terms control and control of variables in an experiment.
6. Determine the necessary components for collecting and analyzing data. (i.e. multiple trials, observable and measurable variables, sufficient sample size, random assignment to groups, using proper units of measure, providing labels on tables, charts and graphs.)
7. Analyze the design/results of an experiment and identify improvements needed to make it more reliable, accurate or replicable for future research.
8. Define the scientific method as a flexible process of investigation rather than a rigid procedure.
9. Plan and conduct inquiry as a scientific investigation. This includes developing research questions, formulating hypotheses, designing experimental procedures, recording data, analyzing data, and reaching and defending conclusions (local science inquiry research project).
