unit 1

Observation

Information obtained through the senses.

Infrence

a logical intrepretation based on prior knowladge or expierence

Scientific Method

A series of steps followed to solve problems including collecting data, formulating a hypothesis, testing the hypothesis, and stating conclusions.

question

A statement that requires an answer.

Hypothesis

An educated guess

experiment

A research method in which an investigator manipulates one or more factors to observe the effect on some behavior or mental process

Data

Facts, figures, and other evidence gathered through observations.

analysis

A detailed examination of the elements or structure of something.

report

a collection of writing that carries information to be shared again with someone new

independent variable

The experimental factor that is manipulated; the variable whose effect is being studied.

dependent variable

The outcome factor; the variable that may change in response to manipulations of the independent variable.

controlled experiment

An experiment in which only one variable is manipulated at a time.

experimental control

the ability of researchers to determine the specific experiences that children have during the course of an experiment