Scientific Investigation

When you think of how science is “done”, you may imagine someone in a white lab coat peering into a microscope. Or, you might imagine a team of scientists trekking into the jungle to investigate a rare plant species. Whatever image pops into your head, you can be certain that the scientist you imagine – and every other scientist – uses a specific process for investigation. In this topic, you will learn about the scientific process. You will use it repeatedly throughout this course. In addition, you will examine the difference between an observation and an inference, and learn the difference between theory and law in science.

Essential Questions

• What is the difference between an observation and an inference?
• What is a valid hypothesis?
• What are the elements of an experimental design?
• What is the difference between theory and law in science?