6 - 00 Methods of Science SW

Supplemental
Worksheets
Name
Date
Class
Quick Vocabulary
Lesson 1
Lesson 2
critical thinking comparing what
description spoken or written
you already know with the

information you are given in order
to decide whether you agree
with it
hypothesis possible explanation for

an observation that can be tested
by scientific investigations
inference logical explanation of an

observation that is drawn from
prior knowledge or experience
summary of observations
explanation interpretation of
observations
International System of Units (SI)

internationally accepted system for
measurement
significant digits number of digits

in a measurement that you know
with a certain degree of reliability
observation act of using one or

more of your senses to gather
information and taking note of
what occurs
Copyright Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
physical describes a branch of science

in which matter and energy are
studied
potential possible, likely, or probable

prediction statement of what will
happen next in a sequence of events
science investigation and

exploration of natural events and
of the new information that results
from these investigations
scientific law rule that describes a

pattern in nature
scientific theory explanation of

observations or events that is based
on knowledge gained from many
observations and investigations
technology practical use of scientific

knowledge, especially for industrial
or commercial use
Methods of Science
Name
Date
Class
Quick Vocabulary
Lesson 3
dependent variable factor that you
want to observe or measure during
an experiment
independent variable factor that

you want to test that is changed by
the investigator to observe how it
affects a dependent variable
variable any factor that can have

more than one variable
Methods of Science
Name
Date
Class
Lesson Outline
LESSON 1
Understanding Science
A. What is science?
1.
includes the investigation and exploration of

events, as well as the new
that results from those investigations.
2. A great deal of debate and confirmation within the

community leads to the increase of scientific
3. People use science in their everyday
and careers for
many different things.
B. Branches of Science
1. There are
2.
main branches of science.

science includes the investigation of rocks,
, oceans, the
surface features of
3.
.
science, also called biology, is the study
of
, and the
4.
.
science is the study of matter and
; it includes physics and
C. Scientific Inquiry
1. Scientists use scientific
, which involves a varied series
of skills, when they conduct
investigations.
2. Scientists often begin scientific inquiry with
the act of
using one or more of your senses to gather information and taking note of what
occurs.
3. After an observation, scientists might make a(n)
which
is a logical explanation of an observation drawn from prior knowledge or experience.
4. A(n)
is a possible explanation for an observation that

can be tested by scientific investigations; scientists often use a hypothesis to make
, which are statements of what might occur next in
a sequence of events.
Methods of Science
Name
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Class
Lesson Outline continued

5. Scientists
a hypothesis by doing one or more of these
steps: designing a(n)

a(n)
, making
, gathering and
evidence,
data, or recording observations.
6. After scientists have tested a hypothesis, they

7. Scientists
their results.
based on relationships among their data;
a(n)
testing a hypothesis.
is a summary of the information gained from
8. Scientists
their results to inform other scientists about
their research.
9. Scientists
predictions many times to make sure the
conclusions are the same.
D. Results of Science
1. A scientific investigation can lead to one or more of these results:
new
a practical use of scientific knowledge, especially

, such as those
developed in the space program; new

something occurs.
as to why or how
2. If hypotheses have been tested and
repeatedly by
scientific investigations, they can become a scientific

an
explanation of observations or events that is based on knowledge gained from
many observations and investigations.
3. A rule that describes a pattern in nature is called a(n)
E. New Information
1.
is important in all decision making.
2. Scientists evaluate scientific evidence by using
doubting
the truth or accuracy of statementsand identifying facts

and
3. Scientists realize that not all

scientific inquiry, including those related to
values, and feelings.
can be studied using

, beliefs,
4. It is important to use
practices when performing

scientific investigations so potential hazards can be avoided.
Methods of Science
for industrial or commercial use; new
Name
Date
Class
Content Practice A
LESSON 1
Directions: On the line before each definition, write the letter of the term that matches it correctly. Each term
is used only once.
1. the act of watching something and taking note

of what occurs
2. a possible explanation for an observation that

can be tested by scientific investigations
3. a statement of what will happen next in a

sequence of events
A. hypothesis
B. inference
C. observation
D. prediction
E. potential
F. science
4. a logical conclusion based on available

information or evidence
5. an explanation of observations or events that is

based on knowledge gained from many
observations and investigations
G. scientific law
H. scientific theory
I. technology
6. a rule that describes a pattern in nature

7. the practical use of scientific knowledge,
especially for industrial or commercial use
8. something that is possible or likely

9. the investigation and explanation of natural
events and of the new information that results
from those investigations
Methods of Science
Name
Date
Class
Content Practice B
LESSON 1
Directions: Circle the term in parentheses that correctly completes each sentence.
1. When scientists conduct scientific investigations, they use scientific (inquiry/theory).

2. There are three main branches of science(Earth science/chemistry), life science,
and physical science.
3. One way to begin a scientific inquiry is to (observe/ignore) the natural world.

4. After observation, the next step in scientific inquiry usually is to (infer/hypothesize)
and predict.
5. When scientists state a hypothesis, they often use it to make a(n) (inference/prediction).
6. Scientists regularly question scientific theories and test them for (validity/unreliability).
8. (Inferences/Hypotheses) can be revised and tested many times.

9. The results and the conclusions from an investigation can lead to many (outcomes/causes).
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7. A scientific (law/theory) explains that something will happen under certain circumstances.
Name
Date
Class
Key Concept Builder
LESSON 1
Key Concept What is scientific inquiry?
Directions: Complete the chart by writing the letter of the correct statement under each heading. Each statement
is used only once.
A. State your observation and then provide an explanation.

B. Design an experiment.
C. Make a model.
D. Scientists use logical reasoning and inferences during this part of the process.
E. Data are sorted, classified, graphed, or processed in some way so relationships are obvious.
F. State a problem.
G. The information gained from the unsupported hypothesis can be used to revise the
hypothesis.
H. Inform other scientists about what research has occurred.

Ask Questions
1.
Hypothesize and Predict
2.
Test Hypothesis
3.
4.
Analyze Results
5.
Draw Conclusions
6.
Communicate Results
7.
Further Scientific Inquiry
8.
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Name
Date
Class
Key Concept Builder
LESSON 1
Key Concept How do scientific laws and scientific theories differ?
Directions: On the line before each statement, write T if the statement is true or F if the statement is false. If the
statement is false, change the underlined word(s) to make it true. Write your changes on the lines provided.
1. A hypothesis is a possible explanation about an observation that can be tested

by scientific investigations.
2. When a hypothesis or a group of hypotheses has been tested over and over and
has not been supported by scientific investigations, the hypothesis can become
a scientific theory.
3. A scientific theory is an explanation of observations or events that is

based on knowledge gained from many observations and
investigations.
4. Scientists hardly question scientific theories and test them
5. A scientific theory generally is accepted as false until it is

proved.
6. The theory of plate tectonics explains how Earths core moves and why
earthquakes and volcanoes occur.
7. A scientific law is the same as a scientific theory.

8. A scientific law explains that something will happen under certain
circumstances.
9. A scientific law only states that an event occurs.
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for validity.
Name
Date
Key Concept Builder
Class
LESSON 1
Key Concept What is the difference between a fact and an opinion?
Directions: On the line before each statement, write F if the statement is a fact or O if the statement is an opinion.
1. The study of Earths rocks, soil, oceans, atmosphere, and surface features
is Earth science.
2. Earth science is the most useful branch of science.

3. There should only be two ways to test a hypothesis.
4. Technology enables some deaf people to hear.
5. Space travel is too dangerous.
6. New information can lead to changes in scientific theories.

7. An opinion is a personal view, feeling, or claim about a topic.
8. Relaying facts is the best way to make a point.
Methods of Science
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Name
Date
Class
Lesson Quiz A
LESSON 1
Matching
is used only once.
1. a possible explanation of an observation that can

be tested by scientific investigations
2. the act of using one or more of your senses to

gather information and recording what occurs
A. inference
B. observation
C. prediction
D. hypothesis
3. a statement about what will happen next in a

sequence of events
4. a logical explanation of an observation that is

drawn from prior knowledge or experience
Multiple Choice
Directions: On the line before each question or statement, write the letter of the correct answer.
6. An explanation based on many observations and investigations is a

A. scientific law.
B. scientific theory.
C. scientific hypothesis.
7. Which step of scientific inquiry would most likely occur first during an
investigation?
A. asking a question
B. testing a hypothesis
C. communicating results
8. A rule that describes a pattern in nature is a

A. scientific law.
B. scientific theory.
C. scientific investigation.
9. Which of these is NOT a fact?
A. an observation
B. a measurement
C. a personal view
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5. A scientist who works in the field of biology would most likely study
A. forces.
B. animals.
C. volcanoes.
Name
Date
Class
Lesson Quiz B
LESSON 1
Matching
Directions: On the line before each definition, write the letter of the term that matches it correctly. Not all terms
are used.
1. a possible explanation of an observation that can

be tested by scientific investigations
2. the act of using one or more of your senses to

gather information and recording what occurs
3. a statement about what will happen next in a

sequence of events
A. law
B. observation
C. inference
D. opinion
E. hypothesis
F. prediction
4. a logical explanation of an observation that is

drawn from prior knowledge or experience
5. a statement that cannot be proved true or false
Multiple Choice
6. Physical science includes

A. physics and biology.
B. biology and geology.
C. chemistry and physics.
D. oceanography and chemistry.
7. Which statement about scientific laws is correct?
A. Scientific laws are hypotheses.
B. Scientific laws describe patterns in nature.
C. Scientific laws explain why something happens.
D. Scientific laws are the same as scientific theories.
8. Which step would most likely occur at the end of a scientific investigation?
A. asking questions
B. analyzing results
C. making predictions
D. communicating results
9. Which statement is an example of a scientific law?
A. The solar system has eight planets.
B. The study of new species is worth the money it costs.
C. Earthquakes can occur due to the movement of tectonic plates.
D. An object will always remain at rest unless another object acts on it.
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Name
Date
Lesson Outline
Class
LESSON 2
Measurement and Scientific Tools

A. Description and Explanation
1. A spoken or written summary of observations is known as
a(n)
a. A(n)
description is one in which the senses are used
to describe an observation.
b. A(n)
description is one in which numbers and

measurements are used to describe an observation.
c. An interpretation of observations is called a(n)
2. The internationally accepted system for measurement is called the

, which is abbreviated as
3. The SI system of measurement has standard measurements called

units and a set of
to tell
the size of the unit.
4. It is easy to
based on units of
from one SI unit to another because SI is

.
in any measurement because determining

exact measurements with certainty can be problematic; therefore, a measurement
always involves some amount of guessing.
6. The number of digits in a measurement that you know with a certain degree of
reliability are called
a. To achieve the same degree of precision as a previous measurement, it often is

necessary to
a number.
b. If the digit to the
of the digit being rounded is

than 5, the digit being rounded stays the same; if the
digit to the right of the digit being rounded is 5 or

the digit being rounded is increased by one.
7. There are
values often used when scientists analyze
numbers in their data.
a. When the data in a data set are arranged in numerical order, the middle number
in the list is the
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5. There is
Name
Date
Class

b. The
of a data set is the number or item that appears
most often.
c. The
of a data set is the sum of the numbers in the set
divided by the number of
in the set.
d. The
is the difference between the greatest number

and the least number in the data set.
B. Scientific Tools
1. A notebook that you use to take notes or record information and data while you
conduct a scientific investigation is called a science
2. Making measurements of
and distances is commonly
done with rulers and

of
, using base units

.
3. To measure the volume of a liquid, use a(n)

units of liters or
and
.
4. To measure the mass of an object, use a(n)
units of grams or
and
.
5. To measure the temperature of a substance, use a(n)

and units of degrees
6.
are useful for collecting,

,
storing, analyzing data, and ultimately sharing results worldwide over the Internet.
C. Tools Used by Earth Scientists

1. Earth scientists use
to get a clearer look at

objects, including landforms, animals, and weather.
2. Earth scientists use a(n)

the
3.
to navigate and to determine

of objects.
direction is measured by
a(n)
; wind speed is measured by
a(n)
4. To help identify minerals, people use a piece of unglazed porcelain called

a(n)
minerals
Methods of Science
; the color of the mark left is called the

.
23
Name
Date
Content Practice A
Class
LESSON 2

Directions: Unscramble the terms. Then on each line write the unscrambled term that correctly completes each
sentence. Each term is used only once.
anme
edmo
diname
nificsigant istdig
ngera
inoiernataintl etmsys fo tisun
pexlaaniton
sdeipcrtion
1. A(n)
is an interpretation of observations.
2. The
is the internationally accepted system for measurement.
3.
are the number of digits in a measurement that you know

with a certain degree of reliability.
is a spoken or written summary of observations.
5. The
is the middle number in a data set when the data are
arranged in numerical order.
6. The
of a data set is the sum of the numbers in a data set

divided by the number of entries in the set.
7. The
is the difference between the largest number and the
smallest number in the data set.
8. The
of a data set is the number or item that appears most
often.
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4. A(n)
Name
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Class
Content Practice B
LESSON 2

Directions: Complete the charts with the correct terms or numbers in the space provided.
SI Base Units
Quantity Measured
Unit
Symbol
length
1.
2.
mass
3.
4.
time
5.
6.
7.
ampere
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
mol
13.
candela
14.
Prefixes
Prefix
Meaning
mega- (M)
15.
kilo- (k)
16.
hecto- (h)
17.
deka- (da)
18.
base unit
19.
deci- (d)
20.
centi- (c)
21.
milli- (m)
22.
micro- ()
23.
Directions: On each line, write the term or phrase that correctly completes each sentence.
24. The International System of Units (SI) uses
to identify the
size of the unit.
25. Because SI is based on
, it is easy to convert from one SI
unit to another.
26. To convert SI units, you must multiply or divide by a(n)

Methods of Science
.
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Name
Date
Class
Math Skills
LESSON 2
Use Proportions
A proportion is an equation of two equal ratios. If one of the numbers in a proportion is
unknown, you cross multiply to solve for the unknown number.
You use conversion factors and a proportion to change between units. A conversion factor
is a fraction that tells how many of one unit are in another unit. (Table 2 in your textbook
will help you find the conversion.) The conversion factor will be one side of your proportion.
When writing the proportion, make sure you put the numbers in the correct places. The
numerators of the ratios should have the same units, and the denominators of the ratios
should have the other units.
A container has a mass of 0.78 kg. Using a proportion, find the mass of the container in
grams.
Step 1 Find the correct relationship between the units.
1,000 g
There are 1,000 g in 1 kg. Use the conversion factor _______.
1 kg
Step 2 Use the information in the problem to set up a proportion.

Both denominators have units of kilograms, so the proportion is correct.
1,000 g
x
_______
= _______
0.78 kg
1 kg
Step 3
Solve for x. Remember to cancel units.

1 kg
x = 780 g
Practice
1. A weight has a mass of 3.5 kg. Using a
proportion, find the mass of the weight
in grams.
2. A shoelace is 91 cm long. How long is

the shoelace in meters?
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3. One lap around a running track is

0.5 km. Using a proportion, find the
distance around the track in meters.
4. A multivitamin contains 650 g

of vitamin A. How many milligrams
of vitamin A is that?
Methods of Science
(0.78 kg) (1,000 g)

x = ________________
Name
Date
Key Concept Builder
Class
LESSON 2

Key Concept Why is it important for scientists to use the International System of Units?
Directions: On the line before each statement, write Q if the statement is qualitative, Qu if the statement is
quantitative, or E if the statement is an explanation.
1. The lava was bright red with a black crust.

2. The lava was about 630C.
3. Because the lava was bright red and about 630C, the volcano did not recently
erupt and the lava was cooling down.
4. The liquids boiling point is 150C.

5. The material has a sour taste.
Directions: Write a paragraph explaining why it is important for scientists to use the International System of Units.
Use details to support your ideas.
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Methods of Science
Name
Date
Key Concept Builder
Class
LESSON 2

Key Concept What causes measurement uncertainty?
Directions: Answer each question or respond to each statement on the lines provided.
1. List the four significant digits rules.
2. Write the number of significant digits in each number:

a. 0.950
b. 3.0001
c. 12.35
3. Round to the place value that is underlined: 2,568.434.
4. Round to the place value that is underlined: 8,964.
5. Explain what causes measurement uncertainty.
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Name
Date
Class
Key Concept Builder
LESSON 2

Key Concept What causes measurement uncertainty?
Directions: On the line before each description, write the term from the word bank that matches it correctly.
Each term is used only once.
anemometer
binoculars
compass
computers and the Internet
glassware
rulers and metersticks
scientific journal
streak plate
thermometer
triple-beam balance
wind vane
1. These are used to measure lengths and distances.
2. This is any notebook that you use to take notes or record
information and data during a scientific investigation.
3. Beakers are used to hold and pour liquids and graduated

cylinders measure the volume of a liquid because the lines
on the side of a beaker are not as precise.
4. This measures the temperature of a substance.
6. These are used to collect, organize, and store information

about a research topic or about a scientific investigation.
7. This is a piece of hard, unglazed porcelain that can help

you identify types of minerals.
8. This instrument shows magnetic north.

9. These instruments enable people to view faraway objects
more closely.
10. This device, often attached to the roof of a building, rotates

to show the direction of the wind.
11. Also called a wind-speed gauge, this is used to measure

the speed and the force of wind.
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5. This is used to measure the masses of objects.
Name
Date
Key Concept Builder
Class
LESSON 2

Key Concept What are mean, median, mode, and range?
Directions: Use the chart to respond to each statement in the space provided.
Snowfall Data
November
3 in.
December
24 in.
January
6 in.
February
9 in.
March
3 in.
1. Find the mean of the snowfall data.

2. Find the median.
3. Find the mode.

4. Find the range.
5. Which measurement do you think best shows the amount of snowfall from November
through March? Explain.
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Name
Date
Class
Lesson Quiz A
LESSON 2

True or False
Directions: On the line before each statement, write T if the statement is true or F if the statement is false. If the
statement is false, change the underlined word(s) to make it true. Write your changes on the lines provided.
1. A(n) explanation is a spoken or written summary of observations.
2. The SI prefix kilo- means 1,000.
3. International System of Units refers to the number of digits in a measurement

that are known with a certain degree of reliability.
4. The SI base unit for length is the meter.
5. Thermometers are used to measure the mass of a substance.
Multiple Choice
6. How many centimeters are in 1 m?

A. 10
B. 100
C. 1,000
7. The number 4.05 has how many significant digits?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
8. A streak plate is used by Earth scientists to learn about
A. weather.
B. minerals.
C. landforms.
9. The middle number in a data set that is arranged in numerical order is the
A. mode.
B. mean.
C. median.
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Name
Date
Class
Lesson Quiz B
LESSON 2

Completion
Directions: On each line, write the term from the word bank that correctly completes each sentence. Not all terms
are used.
centi-
description
explanation
International System of Units
kilo-
mass
significant digits
temperature
1. The number of digits in a measurement that are known with a certain degree of
reliability are
2. A(n)
.
is a spoken or written summary of observations.
3. The SI prefix
4.
means 1,000.
refers to a standard system of measurements used by
scientists around the world.
5. Thermometers are used to measure
Short Answer
Directions: Respond to each statement on the lines provided.
6. Explain how prefixes are used in the SI system.
7. State how many significant digits are in the number 0.12. Explain your reasoning.
8. Describe what an Earth scientist could learn by using a streak plate.
9. Contrast the mode, range, and mean of a data set.
Methods of Science
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Name
Date
Class
Lesson Outline
LESSON 3
Case Study
The Icemans Last Journey
1. In the year
, two hikers discovered the remains of a man
in a melting
2. The
between Austria and Italy.

found near the body, including
made of deerskin and stuffed with grass, suggested that

the body was not of a person from any recent time.
3. Scientists designed a(n)
experiment to try to identify
the body.
4. To design a controlled experiment, scientists identify

that might affect the
of the experiment.
a. Any factor that can have more than one value is called
a(n)
b. A controlled experiment has
different kinds of
variables.
c. The
d. The
variable is the factor that is observed or

measured during a controlled experiment.
e. A controlled experiment has

f. A(n)
groups.
group is used to study how a change in the
independent variable affects the
variable.
g. In the
group, the
variable is not changed, but otherwise this group is the same as the experimental
group.
5. Using
dating, scientists figured out that the body found
in the ice, nicknamed the Iceman, lived about
years ago;
one of the first

about the Iceman was that he died in
the autumn and was quickly buried and frozen.
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variable is the factor that is being tested; it is

changed by the investigator to observe how it affects a dependent variable.
Name
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6. Samples of
(burned wood) found near the Icemans
body were from trees that grew at lower

than the
discovery site; for this reason, scientists hypothesized that shortly before the Iceman
died, he had been at places that were
in elevation.
7. A scientist ran an experiment on a tiny sample of material from the

Icemans
, where he found edible

material, including einkorn.
8. The scientist found that pollen grains had been in the Icemans stomach for
a(n)
time before the man died because they had not
been digested; the scientist identified the pollen as being from a tree that grows
at
elevation than the discovery site.
a. The scientist hypothesized that his sample from the Iceman was
and that the grains of pollen came from near the
scientists
b. He ran an experiment in which the
was a sterile slide

that included the same saline solution and equipment the scientist used with the
Icemans sample, without the sample itself.
c. The control did not have any
, so the grains had been
swallowed by the Iceman.
9. The pollen grains found in the Iceman were
, so the
scientist concluded that the Iceman died during the

season of the pollen grains.
10. By studying more grain samples from the Iceman, the scientist inferred where the
Iceman traveled during the last period of
hours of his life.
11. The Iceman is thought to have traveled from a high region down to a valley, where
he was injured with a(n)
that was found in his shoulder,
at which point he retreated back to a higher elevation, where he
eventually
Methods of Science
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Name
Date
Class
Content Practice A
LESSON 3
Case Study
is used only once.
1. the factor that is changed by the investigator to

observe how it affects a dependent variable
A. variable
B. independent variable
2. any factor that can have more than one value
C. dependent variable
3. the factor that a scientist observes or measures
D. control group
during an experiment
E. experimental group
4. The effects of changing the independent variable

are observed and recorded for this.
5. This contains the same factors as the experimental

group, but the independent variable is not
changed.
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Name
Date
Content Practice B
Class
LESSON 3
Case Study
Directions: On the line before each statement, write the letter of the correct answer.
1. In
, two hikers discovered a human body in a melting glacier on the

border of Austria and Italy.
A. 1891
B. 1919
C. 1991
2.
often begin when someone asks a question about something that is

observed in nature.
A. Variable
B. Hypotheses
C. Scientific investigations
3. The Iceman lived about

A. 4,000
B. 5,300
C. 10,000
years ago.
4. Because the Icemans body was extremely well preserved, Professor Spindler
concluded that it was covered by snow shortly after the man died and that
he had died in the
A. fall
B. spring
C. winter
5.
is common in scientific research.

A. Error
B. Failure
C. Success
6. By examining the
of the Icemans digestive tract, Professor Oeggl was

able to reconstruct the Icemans last journey.
A. lining
B. contents
C. temperature
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Name
Date
Class
Key Concept Builder
LESSON 3
Case Study
Key Concept How are independent variables and dependent variables related?
1. When scientists design a controlled experiment, they have to identify factors

that can affect the
A. outcome
B. prediction
C. independent variable
of an experiment.
2. A variable is any factor that can have more than

A. one
B. two
C. three
value(s).
3. In controlled experiments, there are two kinds of

A. variables
B. outcomes
C. hypotheses
4. The independent variable is the factor that is changed by the investigator to
5. The
is the factor that a scientist observes or measures during an
experiment.
A. control group
B. dependent variable
C. independent variable
6. When the
variable is changed, it causes the
A. new, old
B. dependent, independent
C. independent, dependent
46
variable to change.
Methods of Science
how it affects a dependent variable.

A. predict
B. change
C. observe
Name
Date
Class
Key Concept Builder
LESSON 3
Case Study
Key Concept How are independent variables and dependent variables related?
Directions: On the line before each statement, write the letter of the term that matches it correctly. Some terms
will be used more than once.
1. A controlled experiment has two groups,

and
A. the independent
variable
2. The effects of changing the independent variable

are observed and recorded for
B. the experimental
group
C. the control group
3. The control group contains the same factors as

the experimental group, but
changed.
is not
4. Without
, it is difficult to know if your

experimental observations result from the variable
you are testing or another variable.
Directions: Respond to each statement on the lines provided.
5. Describe how independent and dependent variables are related.
6. Explain why a control group is important to a controlled experiment.
Methods of Science
47
Name
Date
Class
Key Concept Builder
LESSON 3
Case Study
Key Concept How is scientific inquiry used in a real-life scientific investigation?
Directions: Use the map to answer each question or respond to each statement on the lines provided.
1. Explain how the Icemans digestive tract allowed Professor Oeggl to reconstruct the
Icemans last journey.
in a persons stomach, about how

long do you think it took the Iceman
to reach his final destination? Explain.
Orzi site
Tisental
( Val di Tisa)
Vernagt Reservoir
(Vernago)
Border
AUSTRIA
Possible route of Iceman
I T A L Y
S
ch
(V
al
s)
ta
GERMANY
Se a
na l s
le
Innsbruck
AUS TRIA
Bolzano
Area of
detail
Lake
Garda
Neckera
complanata
moss sites
ITALY
Vinschgau
(Val Venosta)
Verona
Juval Castle
Venice
Po River
48
Methods of Science
2. Considering how fast pollen digests
Name
Date
Class
Lesson Quiz A
LESSON 3
Case Study
Matching
is used only once.
1. a factor in an experiment that is changed by the

investigator
2. the group in a controlled experiment that is used

to observe the effect of changing the independent
variable
3. the factor observed or measured during an
A. variable
B. control group
C. dependent variable
D. independent variable
E. experimental group
experiment
4. any factor in an experiment that can have more

than one value
5. the group in a controlled experiment for which

the independent variable is not changed
Multiple Choice
7. The documentation of procedures and accidents to eliminate false observations

or incorrect data is
A. a case study.
B. an error analysis.
C. a scientific theory
52
Methods of Science
6. A logical conclusion based on information available to a scientist is

A. a prediction.
B. an inference.
C. an observation.
Name
Date
Class
Lesson Quiz B
LESSON 3
Case Study
Matching
Directions: On the line before each definition, write the letter of the term that matches it correctly. Not all terms
are used.
1. a factor in an experiment that is changed by the

investigator
2. the group in the controlled experiment that is

used to observe the effect of changing the
independent variable
3. the factor observed or measured during an

experiment
4. any factor in an experiment that can have more
A. variable
B. conclusion
C. observation
D. control group
E. dependent variable
F. independent variable
G. experimental group
than one value
5. the group in the controlled experiment for which

the independent variable is not changed
Multiple Choice
6. Which term is most similar in meaning to the term inference?

A. control
B. prediction
C. conclusion
D. observation
7. Error analysis is used to
A. make a prediction.
B. design an experiment.
C. eliminate false conclusions.
D. challenge established theories.
Methods of Science
53
Lesson Outline for Teaching

Lesson 1: Understanding Science
A. What is science?
1. Science includes the investigation and exploration of natural events, as well as the
new information that results from those investigations.
increase of scientific knowledge.
2. A great deal of debate and confirmation within the science community leads to the
3. People use science in their everyday lives and careers for many different things.
1. There are three main branches of science.
B. Branches of Science
and the surface features of Earth.
2. Earth science includes the investigation of rocks, soil, oceans, the atmosphere,
3. Life science, also called biology, is the study of living things.
4. Physical science is the study of matter and energy; it includes physics and chemistry.
Methods of Science
9. Scientists retest predictions many times to make sure the conclusions are the same.
8. Scientists communicate their results to inform other scientists about their research.
is a summary of the information gained from testing a hypothesis.
7. Scientists draw conclusions based on relationships among their data; a(n) conclusion
6. After scientists have tested a hypothesis, they analyze their results.
5. Scientists test a hypothesis by doing one or more of these steps: designing

a(n) experiment, making a(n) model, gathering and evaluating evidence,
collecting data, or recording observations.
4. A(n) hypothesis is a possible explanation for an observation that can be tested by

scientific investigations; scientists often use a hypothesis to make predictions,
which are statements of what might occur next in a sequence of events.
explanation of an observation drawn from prior knowledge or experience.
3. After an observation, scientists might make a(n) inference, which is a logical
more of your senses to gather information and taking note of what occurs.
2. Scientists often begin scientific inquiry with observationthe act of using one or
conduct scientific investigations.
1. Scientists use scientific inquiry, which involves a varied series of skills, when they
C. Scientific Inquiry
T2
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D. Results of Science
1. A scientific investigation can lead to one or more of these results: new technology
a practical use of scientific knowledge, especially for industrial or commercial use;
new materials, such as those developed in the space program; new explanations as
to why or how something occurs.
2. If hypotheses have been tested and supported repeatedly by scientific investigations,

they can become a scientific theoryan explanation of observations or events that
is based on knowledge gained from many observations and investigations.
3. A rule that describes a pattern in nature is called a(n) scientific law.
1. Critical thinking is important in all decision making.
E. New Information
or accuracy of statementsand by identifying facts and opinions.
2. Scientists evaluate scientific evidence by using skepticismdoubting the truth
including those related to opinions, beliefs, values, and feelings.
3. Scientists realize that not all questions can be studied using scientific inquiry,
so that potential hazards can be avoided.
4. It is important to use safe practices when performing scientific investigations
Discussion Question
How would you evaluate the claims made in the advertisement of the algebra pillow? Refer
to specific statements in the ad to make your evaluation.
11/3/10 11:58:24
T3
Most students will realize that the ad is based on exaggerated claims that would be unlikely
to be provable or correct. For instance, the claim that the pillow improved the algebra test
scores of mice seems highly unlikely, since mice cant do algebra. Also, no data are mentioned
that are related to how well students do after using the pillow, making the claims for the
pillow seem questionable. Students might refer to other statements in the ad as well.
Methods of Science
C100_070_075_CRF_AnsOut_891431.i71 71

Lesson 2: Measurement and Scientific Tools
A. Description and Explanation
or millileters.
3. To measure the volume of a liquid, use a(n) graduated cylinder and units of liters
or kilograms.
4. To measure the mass of an object, use a(n) triple-beam balance and units of grams
5. To measure the temperature of a substance, use a(n) thermometer and units
1. A spoken or written summary of observations is known as a(n) description.

a. A(n) qualitative description is one in which the senses are used to describe
an observation.
6. Computers are useful for collecting, organizing, storing, analyzing data,
and ultimately sharing results worldwide over the Internet.
of degrees Celsius.
b. A(n) quantitative description is one in which numbers and measurements

are used to describe an observation.
C. Tools Used by Earth Scientists
1. Earth scientists use binoculars to get a clearer look at distant or faraway objects,
c. An interpretation of observations is called a(n) explanation.

2. The internationally accepted system for measurement is called the International
System of Units, which is abbreviated as SI.
2. Earth scientists use a(n) compass to navigate and to determine the direction
C100_070_075_CRF_AnsOut_891431.i73 73
Methods of Science
11/3/10 11:58:25
T5
Qualitative descriptions should use information from the senses to describe an observation.
Quantitative descriptions should include numbersmeasurements preferably given in
SI units or Celsius degrees. Explanations should explain observations and might include
a hypothesis that students make up or a theory or a law that students know or look up.
Give some examples of each of the following as they relate to science: a quantitative
description, a qualitative description, and an explanation.
Discussion Question
a(n) streak plate; the color of the mark left is called the minerals streak.
4. To help identify minerals, people use a piece of unglazed porcelain called
a(n) anenometer.
3. Wind direction is measured by a(n) wind vane; wind speed is measured by
of objects.
including landforms, animals, and weather.
3. The SI system of measurement has standards of measurement called base units

and a set of prefixes to tell the size of the unit.
4. It is easy to convert from one SI unit to another because SI is based on units of ten.
5. There is uncertainty in any measurement because determining exact measurements
with certainty can be problematic; therefore, a measurement always involves some
amount of guessing.
6. The number of digits in a measurement that you know with a certain degree of
reliability are called significant digits.
a. To achieve the same degree of precision as a previous measurement, it often
is necessary to round a number.
b. If the digit to the right of the digit being rounded is less than 5, the digit being
rounded stays the same; if the digit to the right of the digit being rounded
is 5 or higher, the digit being rounded is increased by one.
7. There are four values often used when scientists analyze numbers in their data.
in the list is the median.
a. When the data in a data set are arranged in numerical order, the middle number
b. The mode of a data set is the number or item that appears most often.
of entries in the set.
c. The mean of a data set is the sum of the numbers in the set divided by the number
in the data set.
d. The range is the difference between the greatest number and the least number
B. Scientific Tools
conduct a scientific investigation is called a science journal.
1. A notebook that you use to take notes or record information and data while you
and metersticks, using base units of meters.
Methods of Science
2. Making measurements of lengths and distances is commonly done with rulers
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Lesson 3: Case Study
Methods of Science
and that the grains of pollen came from near the scientists laboratory.
a. The scientist hypothesized that his sample from the Iceman was contaminated
8. The scientist found that pollen grains had been in the Icemans stomach for
a(n) short time before the man died because they had not been digested; the
scientist identified the pollen as being from a tree that grows at lower elevation
than the discovery site.
digestive tract, where he found edible plant material, including einkorn.
7. A scientist ran an experiment on a tiny sample of material from the Icemans
6. Samples of charcoal (burned wood) found near the Icemans body were from
trees that grew at lower elevations than the discovery site; for this reason, scientists
hypothesized that shortly before the Iceman died, he had been at places that
were lower in elevation.
5. Using radiocarbon dating, scientists figured out that the body found in the ice,
nicknamed the Iceman, lived about 5,300 years ago; one of the first hypotheses
about the Iceman was that he died in the autumn and was quickly buried and frozen.
this group is the same as the experimental group.
g. In the control group, the independent variable is not changed, but otherwise
f. A(n) experimental group is used to study how a change in the independent

variable affects the dependent variable.
e. A controlled experiment has two groups.
a controlled experiment.
d. The dependent variable is the factor that is observed or measured during
the investigator to observe how it affects a dependent variable.
c. The independent variable is the factor that is being tested; it is changed by
b. A controlled experiment has two different kinds of variables.
a. Any factor that can have more than one value is called a(n) variable.
the outcome of the experiment.
4. To design a controlled experiment, scientists identify factors that might affect
3. Scientists designed a(n) controlled experiment to try to identify the body.
2. The artifacts found near the body, including shoes made of deerskin and stuffed with
grass, suggested that the body was not of a person from any recent time.
1. In the year 1991, two hikers discovered the remains of a man in a melting glacier
between Austria and Italy.
The Icemans Last Journey
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11/3/10 11:58:26
b. He ran an experiment in which the control was a sterile slide that included the
same saline solution and equipment the scientist used with the Icemans sample,
without the sample itself.
Iceman.
c. The control did not have any pollen, so the grains had been swallowed by the
the Iceman died during the blooming season of the pollen grains.
9. The pollen grains found in the Iceman were whole, so the scientist concluded that
Iceman traveled during the last period of 33 hours of his life.
10. By studying more grain samples from the Iceman, the scientist inferred where the
11. The Iceman is thought to have traveled from a high region down to a valley, where
he was injured with a(n) arrowhead that was found in his shoulder, at which point
he retreated back to a higher elevation, where he eventually died.
Discussion Question
Discuss whether you think the following statement is true and give reasons for your answer:
When doing research on a topic, a professional scientist always sticks with a single hypothesis.
11/3/10 11:58:27
T7
Students should realize that a scientist often proposes multiple hypotheses over the course
of researching a topic. The scientist starts by posing one hypothesis, runs an experiment to
test it, analyzes the results, and then often develops another hypothesis and experiment,
based on what was learned from the first experiment. The case study of the Iceman
illustrates this point.
Methods of Science
C100_070_075_CRF_AnsOut_891431.i75 75

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critical thinking comparing what

description spoken or written

you already know with the

hypothesis possible explanation for

inference logical explanation of an

International System of Units (SI)

significant digits number of digits

observation act of using one or

Copyright Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

physical describes a branch of science

potential possible, likely, or probable

science investigation and

scientific law rule that describes a

scientific theory explanation of

technology practical use of scientific

independent variable factor that

variable any factor that can have

Copyright Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

includes the investigation and exploration of

2. A great deal of debate and confirmation within the

3. People use science in their everyday

and careers for

many different things.

main branches of science.

, which involves a varied series

of skills, when they conduct

2. Scientists often begin scientific inquiry with

3. After an observation, scientists might make a(n)

is a possible explanation for an observation that

Lesson Outline continued

a hypothesis by doing one or more of these

steps: designing a(n)

data, or recording observations.

6. After scientists have tested a hypothesis, they

based on relationships among their data;

is a summary of the information gained from

their results to inform other scientists about

predictions many times to make sure the

conclusions are the same.

a practical use of scientific knowledge, especially

developed in the space program; new

2. If hypotheses have been tested and

scientific investigations, they can become a scientific

3. A rule that describes a pattern in nature is called a(n)

is important in all decision making.

2. Scientists evaluate scientific evidence by using

the truth or accuracy of statementsand identifying facts

3. Scientists realize that not all

can be studied using

practices when performing

Copyright Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

for industrial or commercial use; new

1. the act of watching something and taking note

2. a possible explanation for an observation that

3. a statement of what will happen next in a

4. a logical conclusion based on available

5. an explanation of observations or events that is

6. a rule that describes a pattern in nature

especially for industrial or commercial use

8. something that is possible or likely

1. When scientists conduct scientific investigations, they use scientific (inquiry/theory).

3. One way to begin a scientific inquiry is to (observe/ignore) the natural world.