Methods of Science Quiz: Scientific Method BWHS

Patterns of investigation procedures are called

Answer explanation

Patterns of investigation procedures are referred to as scientific methods. These methods provide a systematic approach to research and experimentation.

True or false: A scientist could follow the general scientific methods illustrated in the diagram, but add new steps or skip some steps altogether.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. The scientific method is flexible; scientists can adapt it by adding or skipping steps based on their research needs, allowing for creativity and innovation in scientific inquiry.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-3

What is generally the first step in a scientific investigation?

• Conduct general research.

• State the problem.

• Gather information.

• Form a hypothesis.

Answer explanation

The first step in a scientific investigation is to state the problem. This defines the focus of the research and guides the subsequent steps, such as gathering information and forming a hypothesis.

Which of these statements about the first step in a scientific investigation are accurate? Check all that apply.

• The results of an investigation may raise a question which is the starting point for another one.

• An investigation should start with a question to be stated as the problem, but sometimes a new question arises before the investigation is done.

• There is no need to gather background information about an investigation since it will just bias your result

Answer explanation

The first two statements are accurate as they highlight the importance of questions in scientific investigations. The third statement is incorrect; background information is essential to avoid bias and inform the investigation.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS3-1

Which statements are good reasons to research and gather information? Check all that apply.

• It can help to form a hypothesis.

• What is already known about the problem will cause  bias the results.

• Reliable interpretations may offer valuable guidance, and do not violate scientific objectivity.

• It is helpful in fine-tuning the question.

Answer explanation

Research helps form a hypothesis, fine-tune questions, and provides reliable interpretations that guide without bias. The statement about bias is misleading, as it suggests that existing knowledge is inherently negative.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-6

Which of these are factors in drawing conclusions about a scientific experiment?

• taking into account the importance of the experiment

• repeating the results of the experiment

• revising the hypothesis or refining the procedure if the hypothesis is not supported

• deciding whether the hypothesis is supported

Answer explanation

Repeating the results ensures reliability, while revising the hypothesis or procedure is crucial if initial results are unsupported. Deciding if the hypothesis is supported is essential for drawing valid conclusions.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-2

When must a hypothesis, law, or principle be changed or abandoned?

Answer explanation

A hypothesis, law, or principle must be changed or abandoned when new evidence contradicts it or when it fails to consistently explain observations. Scientific progress relies on adapting to new data.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-2

NGSS.HS-PS4-3

____ can occur when a scientist's expectations affect how the results are analyzed or the conclusions are drawn.

Answer explanation

Bias can occur when a scientist's expectations influence the analysis of results or the conclusions drawn, leading to skewed or inaccurate findings.

Which of the following help scientists reduce bias? Check all that apply.

• running as many trials as possible

• selecting results from only some of the trials

• presenting only data that supports their hypothesis

• keeping accurate notes of each observation

Answer explanation

Running many trials helps ensure results are consistent and reliable, reducing bias. Keeping accurate notes allows for transparency and reproducibility, which are essential for objective scientific inquiry.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS4-4

Evidence gathered during investigations are reviewed by other __________ who work in the same field of study in a process called peer review.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'scientists' because peer review involves experts in the same field evaluating research findings, ensuring quality and credibility in scientific work.