Science Method - RD Flashcards Preview

Grade 11-C Study Group > Science Method - RD > Flashcards

Flashcards in Science Method - RD Deck (21)
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1
Q

Variables

A

Things/factors which change during an investigation

2
Q

Independent variable

A
  • The variable that you choose to change
  • The input variable
  • The “cause”
3
Q

Dependent variable

A
  • The variable that you measure
  • The output variable
  • The “effect”
4
Q

Fair testing and validity

A

Ensuring all other variables in an investigation are fixed so that you can fairly test the independent variable and how it affects the dependent variable.

5
Q

Fixed variables

A

All other variables that could affect the output or dependent variable are fixed or kept the same throughout the investigation.

6
Q

Accuracy

A

How close your measurement is to the true value you are trying to measure.

7
Q

Precision

A

How similar the value your measurement is each time you repeat the measurement.

8
Q

Reliable

A

How accurate and precise your measurements are.

9
Q

Ensuring reliability

A

Ensure that your measurements are accurate and precise. To do this you need to repeat the process of measuring a number of times to be able to establish accuracy and precision. Generally, you need to report using the average or mean value.

10
Q

Safety precautions

A

What could result in harm to humans or the environment? E.g. ensure lab safety rules followed. Be specific about the danger and the precaution required.

11
Q

A hypothesis

A

A testable statement in the form of an “If… then… because statement.”

12
Q

Conclusions

A

State whether the results support or do not support the hypothesis. Rewrite the hypothesis and give reasons where possible.

13
Q

Bar graph

A

Used when the independent variable is in the form of category data e.g. colour, male vs female.

14
Q

Line graph

A

Used when the independent variable is in the form of continuous data usually showing a particular change through time.

15
Q

Scatter graph

A

Used when the independent variable is in the form of continuous data. Once multiple dots are plotted, trends can be spotted and samples can be compared. Sometimes a line of best fit is drawn (e.g. straight line or curve).

16
Q

Pie graph

A

When you are representing the parts of a whole (e.g. percentages).

17
Q

General placement of variable in a graph

A

Independent on the X-axis (horizontal)

Dependent on the Y-axis (vertical)

18
Q

Working with the scale on a graph

A
  • Use your ruler to draw check marks (typically every 1 cm for 10-15 cm)
  • Look at the minimum and maximum values and ensure these fit onto the axis
  • If not including 0 in your scale include a double line for the break in your axis
19
Q

Labelling the axes

A

Ensure you name the variable and include the unit in brackets. e.g. time (seconds)

20
Q

Suitable headings for graphs and tables

A

Must include both the dependent and independent variables in the description

21
Q

Appropriate table layout

A
  • Independent variable on the left and dependent on the right.
  • Column headings include the units in brackets e.g. height (m).
  • No units should be used in the cells - only values.
  • Tables must be drawn with a ruler such that each cell has lines drawn around them.