Scientific Problem Solving Lesson 1 - Scientific Inquiry

science

the investigation and exploration of natural events and of the new information that results from those investigations

observations

the results of using one or more of your senses to gather information and taking note of what occurs

inference

a logical explanation of an observation that is drawn from prior knowledge or experience

hypothesis

a possible explanation for an observation that can be tested by scientific investigations

prediction

a statement of what will happen next in a sequence of events

scientific theory

an explanation of observations or events that is based on knowledge gained from many observations and investigations

scientific law

a rule that describes a repeatable pattern in nature

technology

the practical use of scientific knowledge, especially for industrial or commercial use

critical thinking

comparing what you already know with the information you are given in order to decide whether you agree with it