Exploring the Nature of Science

What is the scientific method and why is it important in research?

• The scientific method is a way to prove personal beliefs.

• The scientific method is only used in biology.

• The scientific method is a random approach to research.

• The scientific method is a systematic process for investigation that is crucial for ensuring reliable and valid research outcomes.

List the steps of the scientific method in order.

• 1. Observation, 2. Conclusion, 3. Experiment, 4. Question, 5. Hypothesis, 6. Analysis, 7. Communication

• 1. Hypothesis, 2. Experiment, 3. Conclusion, 4. Analysis, 5. Question, 6. Observation, 7. Communication

• 1. Observation, 2. Question, 3. Hypothesis, 4. Experiment, 5. Analysis, 6. Conclusion, 7. Communication.

• 1. Question, 2. Analysis, 3. Observation, 4. Hypothesis, 5. Conclusion, 6. Experiment, 7. Communication

Describe the role of a hypothesis in scientific research.

• A hypothesis is a definitive conclusion drawn from data.

• A hypothesis is an untestable theory that explains observations.

• A hypothesis is a summary of existing research findings.

• A hypothesis is a testable prediction that guides scientific research and experimentation.

What is the difference between dependent and independent variables?

• Independent variables are the results of experiments.

• Independent variables are always constant.

• Dependent variables depend on independent variables.

• Dependent variables can be controlled by the researcher.

Provide an example of a dependent variable in an experiment.

• Height of the plants

• Amount of sunlight received

• Type of soil used

• Color of the plants

Provide an example of an independent variable in an experiment.

• Type of soil

• Amount of sunlight

• Amount of fertilizer

• Temperature of water

How can you construct a hypothesis from a given scenario?

• Choose random words without context.

• Identify variables, formulate a testable statement predicting outcomes.

• List unrelated facts about the topic.

• Ignore the scenario and guess outcomes.

What are the characteristics of a well-written hypothesis?

• Ambiguity in wording

• Lack of relevance to the topic

• Inability to be tested or measured

• Characteristics of a well-written hypothesis include clarity, testability, specificity, and falsifiability.

Analyze the following experiment: A plant's growth is measured with different amounts of sunlight. Identify the independent and dependent variables.

• Independent variable: soil type; Dependent variable: plant's height.

• Independent variable: water level; Dependent variable: amount of sunlight.

• Independent variable: amount of sunlight; Dependent variable: plant's growth.

• Independent variable: plant's growth; Dependent variable: amount of sunlight.

What are some common limitations of scientific research?

• Ethical considerations are irrelevant in scientific research.

• All scientific research is free from limitations.

• Common limitations of scientific research include sample size constraints, biases, measurement limitations, ethical considerations, and uncontrolled variables.

• Sample size is always sufficient in scientific studies.