how science works key points

H1- how dose science work

key points

• observations are often the starting point for an investigation.
• a hypothesis is a proposal intended to explain certain facts or observations.
• a prediction is an intelligent guess, based on some knowledge.
• an experiment is a way of testing your prediction.

H2- fundamental ideas about how science works

key points

• be on the lookout for non-scientific opinions.
• continuous data give more information than other types of data.
• check that evidence is reproducible and valid.

H3- starting an investigation

key points

• observation is often the starting point for an investigation.
• testing predictions can lead to new science understanding.
• you must design investigations that produce valid results if you are to be believed.

H4- planning an investigation

key points

• care must be taken to ensure fair testing- as far as is possible.
• control variables must be kept the same during an investigation.
• surveys are often used when it is impossible to carry out an experiment in which the independent variable is changed.
• control groups allow you to make a comparison.
• a risk assessment must be made when planning a practical investigation.

H5- designing an investigation

key points

• you can use a trial run to make sure that you choose the best values for your variables.
• the range states the maximum and the minimum values of a variable.
• the interval is the gap between the values of a variables.
• careful use of the correct equipment can improve accuracy and precision.
• you should try to reproduce your…