Practice Problems: Scientific Investigation
Click here to see the solutions
1. Explain why the traditional scientific method discussed in the lecture is not descriptive of real-life science.
2. Place the various aspects of a scientific investigation under the main headings listed here: Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion.
a. Data you collect
b. A graph you produce
c. Background on the topic
d. Conclusions you draw
e. Apparatus used
f. Calculations you make
g. Sources of error
3. Why is a lab designed to verify a scientific concept more "situated" that one designed to have "open" inquiry?
4. Match the questions listed below with these apsects of scientific inquiry: Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion.
a. What?
b. Why?
c. So What?
d. How?
5. How does scientific writing differ from everyday writing. Give an example.
6. Which statements shown below are appropriate for a scientific report?
a. The temperature data ranged from 55°C to 85°C while the object expanded
b. The acceleration varied directly with mass when the applied force was constant
c. In my opinion, the substance was difficult to handle
d. When I picked up sample 1 it felt warmer that sample 2
7. Watch the video below. Expain why objectivity is such an important part of the scientific method.