Term | Definition |
scientific method | an organized set of steps to follow |
hypothesis | prediction or possible answer to a scientific question |
variable | a factor that changes in an experiment |
dependent variable | the variable that is being observed or measured and lies on the y-axis in a graph |
independent variable | the variable that is purposely changed and tested and lies on the x=axis during an experiment |
constant | a factor in an experiment that does no change |
control | a standard to which all results are compared |
bias | an opinion favoring one side or another; a predisposition that affects how all results are perceived. |
model | a physical representation of an idea, theory, of object |
theory | an attempt to explain something |
scientific law | describes a natural phenomenon , often mathematically based; much accumulated evidence, appears to be without exception |
technology | applied science |
experiment | to test one variable against another under controlled conditions |
data | information collected during the experiment (numbers, measurements, observations) |
inference | assumptions about observations based on past experiences and knowledge |
observation | information or facts obtained by using the five senses |
scientific theory | summarizes a set of hypothesis supported with repeated testing; has yet to be disproven |
subjective data | opinionated, possibly bias; influenced by personal feelings or experiences |
objective data | data that can be verified with concrete facts and figures; unbiased |
scientific investigation | the process scientists use to find answers about the natural world |
descriptive investigation | an investigation used to gather and describe data |
experimental investigation | an investigation used to find the cause of an event |
observation | a way to gather information using your senses |
prediction | a statement of what a scientist thinks will happen based on an observation |
graph | picture/visual format for displaying data; major tool for communicating ABA results |
vertical axis | represents target behavior/dependent variable; |
horizontal axis | Passage of time, whole units/ independent variable |
linear graph | a line graph in which the data points yield a straight line |
nonlinear graph | a line graph in which the data points do not yield a straight line |
significant figures | all the digits in a measurement that have been measured exactly plus one digit whose value has been estimated |