Science Is Investigating Summary Notes

Describe at least two models and theories that have been considered in science and then been
modified or rejected as a result of available evidence. (1)
1. Thomson 1897 Atomic Model:
a. Proposed a model of the atom which is known as the plum pudding model,
discovered the electron
b. Suggested it was not ordered or dividable made up of protons and electrons
Modification
c. Consists of a nucleus in the middle, made up of protons and neutrons
d. Surrounding the nucleus are electrons at different levels
2. The Solar System:
a. Greek Astronomer, Ptolemy said that Earth was at the centre and all planets and the
sun was orbiting it.
Modification
b. Believed that the sun is in the centre and all planets orbit it
c. The planets also orbit on their own axis
Explain how the process called the scientific method works. (2)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
-

Making an observation
Asking a question
Forming a hypothesis
Making predictions
Testing hypothesis
Drawing a conclusion

Observation Seeing/learning/touching/smelling/tasting
Inference Decision about what could be true after an observation is
made
Hypothesis a guess to answer a question
Aim State the problem that is being attempted
Method list of instruction
Results what was seen or measured
Conclusion Answer to aim or problem
Discussion Results and observations are discussed

State the four steps in a scientific investigation (experiment). (3)

1.
2.
3.
4.

OBSERVATION
INFERENCE
HYPOTHESIS
AIM
APPARATUS
METHOD
RESULTS
CONCLUSION
DISCUSSION

Plan the experiment (observation, inference, hypothesis, aim)

Conduct the experiment (method)
Processing the data (results and conclusion)
Evaluating the experiment (discussion)

Given statements about an experiment distinguish between inference, hypothesis, observation and
prediction. (5)
An observation is something that has occurred and one has witnessed, whereas an inference,
hypothesis and prediction are All hypothesis are predictions, but not all predictions are hypothesis.

Identify the independent and dependent variables in an experiment. (6)

-

Independent variable that is changed

Dependent results that you measure

Identify the controlled or fixed variables in an experiment. (7)

I (Independent)
DONT (Dependent)
CARE (Same)
-

COWS (change)
MOO (measure)
SOFTLY (same)

Controlled variable the variable you keep the same.

Accuracy precise equipment

Reliability: repeat, average, consistent results
Validity: variables controlled, 1 independent variable, fair test

Scientific Law: A statement describing something that happens the same way under the same
conditions every time.
Make a risk assessment for an experiment, which identifies any safety hazards, and decide on
necessary precautions. (9)