What is Science?Science is a systematic way of learning about the natural world

There are 3 main branches of science:◦Life Science◦Earth Science◦Physical Science

What is Physical Science?Physical Science is the study of matter and energy, and the changes they undergo◦Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space Mass = the amount of matter an object contains

◦Energy is the ability to do workPhysical science has two branches:

◦Chemistry◦Physics

What is Physical Science?

Chemistry = the study of the properties of matter and the changes they undergo

Physics = the study of matter and energy and how they interact

How Scientists Think…

They use skills of observation to learn more about the natural world.

Observation

Observing = using one or more senses to gather information

Two Types:◦Quantitative observation◦Qualitative observation

Quantitative observations use numbers◦Example: measuring your height or weight

Qualitative observations describe what you see; don’t involve numbers◦Example: Noticing that a ball is round or that it is raining outside

Look at this animal speed chart:What are some observations you can make?

The Scientific MethodDefinition:

◦A logical, stepwise approach used by scientists to find answers to questions.

Steps:◦1. Observation: Observations are

made by scientists about their surrounding environment. The observations allow scientists to ask questions.

◦2. State the Problem: The problem statement is in the form of a question. It is derived from the observations made by the scientist.

The Scientific Method◦3. Form a Hypothesis: A hypothesis (an educated guess) is a possible explanation for the observation or problem. A hypothesis must be tested to determine

its validity.

◦4. Conduct an Experiment: An experiment tests your hypothesis.

◦5. Analyze Data: Data (information gathered from the experiment) must be accurately recorded. Data can be displayed in a graph, chart, or table.

How to Display Data

Graph

Chart

How to Display Data

Table

The Scientific Method

◦6. Form a Conclusion: Based upon the experimental results, conclusions can be made about the validity, or correctness, of your hypothesis.

After many experiments that give the same results, a scientific theory may be formed.

The Scientific MethodA scientific theory is a well-

tested, verified hypothesis that fits existing data and explains how natural processes or events are thought to occur.

It is a basis for predicting future events or discoveries. Theories may be modified as new information is gained. (Think back to your puzzle activity!)