Scientific Inquiry Vocabulary

Front

What is known as the investigation and exploration of natural events and of the new information that results from those investigations?

Back

science

Front

Using one or more senses to gather information and taking note of what occurs.

Back

observation

Front

What is a logical explanation of an observation that is drawn from prior knowledge or experience?

Back

inference

Front

What is a possible explanation for an observation that can be tested by scientific investigations?

Back

hypothesis

Front

A __________________ is a statement of what will happen next in a sequence of events.

Back

prediction

Front

A _______________ is an explanation of observations or events that is based on knowledge gained from many observations and investigations.

Back

scientific theory

Front

What is a rule that describes a repeatable pattern in nature?

Back

scientific law

Front

What is the practical use of scientific knowledge, especially for industrial or commercial use?

Back

technology

Front

Comparing what you already know with the information you are given in order to decide whether you agree with it.

Back

critical thinking