Introduction To Seventh Grade Science

Scientific Method, Law, Theory and Safety

Vocabulary

Science-knowledge of the physical and material world gained through observation and experimentation.

Scientist- expert in science who is organized, maintains data, and experiments.

Life Science- the study of living things. Ex: biology, ecology, botany, etc.

Physical Science- study of matter, energy, chemistry, physics, and astronomy.

Earth Science- study of the earth, landforms, earthquakes, weather, rocks, minerals, etc.

Scientific Method

Scientific Method- method used by scientists to solve everyday problems.Steps to the Scientific Method-1.) Define the problem2.) Form a hypothesis (Testable Prediction)3.) Data Test/ Hypothesis (Steps in experiment)4.) Analyze Results (Graph)5.) Draw a Conclusion (Did we support the hypothesis)

Independent Vs. Dependent Variable

Independent Variable- the factor that can be adjusted by the experimenter

Dependent Variable- the factor that changes as a result of the independent variable

Example of Independent Variable-Amount of water given to a plant each week(Daily 3-5 times a week)Dependent Variable- plant growth based on water

given

Scientific Law Vs. Theory

• Scientific Theory- a description of nature based on many observations; subject to change when evidence changes

Example: Evolution• Scientific Law- a rule that describes a pattern

in nature and what will happen under specific conditions

Example: Newton’s Laws of Motion

Science Safety Rules

1.) Do NOT eat anything in the lab2.) Stay in your seat unless instructed otherwise3.) Do not block the aisles4.) Wear safety goggles and equipment as

needed5.) Respect all classroom materials and follow

directions