NOS: Understanding Science

A possible explanation of an observation that can be tested by scientific investigations

• scientific theory

• scientific law

• hypothesis

An explanation of observations or events based on knowledge gained from many observations and investigations

• scientific theory

• scientific law

• hypothesis

A description of a pattern or an event in nature that is always true

• scientific theory

• scientific law

• hypothesis

Using one or more of your senses to gather information and take note of what occurs

• inference

• observation

• prediction

A statement about what will happen next in a sequence of events

• inference

• observation

• prediction

A logical explanation of an observation that is drawn from prior knowledge or experience

• inference

• observation

• prediction

The question "How do rocks form?" would be most likely studied by a scientist working in the field of

• life science.

• Earth science.

• physical science.

What is the first step in most scientific inquiries?

• ask a question

• write a scientific law

• communicate results

Which question would most likely be studied by a scientist working in the field of physical science?

• How do rocks form?

• What substances are in soil?

• How are birds and reptiles related?

• How are force and motion related?

What is scientific inquiry?

• the questioning of scientific laws

• the unchanging steps used by all scientists

• a method that always results in new scientific theories

• a process that uses skills and methods to answer question