Assessment Task 1: Working Scientifically

Question 1

What is the aim of an investigation?

Answer 1

A short statement about what you are trying to find out by doing the experiment.

E.g. To determine whether temperature affects dissolving sugar.

Question 2

How should you start your aim statement?

Answer 2

With the word ‘To’ followed by a verb, such as ‘determine’, ‘investigate’ or ‘measure’.

Question 3

What is a hypothesis in a scientific investigation?

Answer 3

A statement that predicts the results of your experiment as a relationship between independent and dependent variables.

E.g. If the temperature of water increases, then the time taken for sugar to dissolve will decrease.

Question 4

What is this?: If ________________ happens, then ____________________ will occur.

Answer 4

The format of the hypothesis.

Question 5

What should be included before the method in a scientific investigation?

Answer 5

A list of appropriate equipment and materials.

Question 6

What types of data should you understand in an investigation?

Answer 6

Qualitative and quantitative data.

Question 7

What is the purpose of using PPE in scientific investigations?

Answer 7

To ensure safety during the experiment.

Question 8

What should a method for an investigation include?

Answer 8

Step-by-step, detailed instructions of how the experiment is carried out.

Question 9

What are the independent and dependent variables?

Answer 9

Independent variable: the one you change; Dependent variable: the one you measure.

Question 10

What are constant variables?

Answer 10

Variables that need to be kept the same to ensure a fair test.

Question 11

Why is it important to keep variables constant in controlled experiments?

Answer 11

To ensure observed changes in the dependent variable are solely due to the manipulation of the independent variable.

Keeping constant variables the same ensures that only the independent variable affects the dependent variable, preventing other factors from influencing the results. This improves accuracy, reliability, and validity in the experiment.

Question 12

List three reasons why controlling variables is essential.

Answer 12

• Accuracy
• Reliability
• Validity

Question 13

What should a risk assessment include?

Answer 13

All possible risks associated with the investigation, as well as prevention and management.

Question 14

What data types can be included in a data table?

Answer 14

• Qualitative (written observations)
• Quantitative (measured numerical data)

Question 15

What should be recorded in a data table?

Answer 15

Measurements of the independent variable in the left column and the dependent variable in the right columns.

Question 16

What is the purpose of calculating averages in experiments?

Answer 16

To use average values to construct graphs and ensure reliability.

Question 17

What is a trend in data?

Answer 17

The general pattern observed in the data.

Question 18

How can you assess the reliability of experimental methods?

Answer 18

By checking if similar results are obtained when the experiment is repeated.

Repetition – Conducting the experiment at least three times and ensuring the results are consistent.

Consistency of Results – If repeated trials produce similar results, the experiment is considered reliable.

Averaging Data – Taking the average of multiple trials reduces errors and improves reliability.

Use of Accurate Equipment – Ensuring precise measurement tools and techniques are used to reduce variability.

Question 19

What does validity in an experiment refer to?

Answer 19

Whether the experimental method tests the aim accurately.

Validity in an experiment refers to how well the experiment measures what it is supposed to measure. A valid experiment accurately tests the hypothesis by ensuring that only the independent variable affects the dependent variable while keeping all other variables controlled.

How to test validity:
Clear Independent Variable – Ensure only one factor is changed.

Controlled Variables – Keep all other factors constant to maintain a fair test.

Appropriate Measurement Tools – Use accurate and calibrated equipment.

Logical Experimental Design – The method should directly test the aim without external interference.

Question 20

What improvements can be suggested for investigations?

Answer 20

• Control variables better
• Use more accurate tools
• Increase sample size
• Repeat trials
• Address safety concerns

Question 21

What should be included in a conclusion for an investigation?

Answer 21

A summary of the findings that answers the aim.

Question 22

What is the importance of scientific language?

Answer 22

To be precise, objective, and formal in descriptions.

Question 23

What format should hypotheses be presented in?

Answer 23

‘If…then…’ format.

Question 24

What must be included when drawing a graph?

Answer 24

• Title
• Labeled axes (including units)
• Accurate data points

Question 25

What should be ensured when measuring data in an experiment?

Answer 25

That the same units and number of decimal places are used in each measurement.

Question 26

Identify three types of errors that can occur during an experiment.

Answer 26

* Constant variables not kept the same * Not performing the experiment several times * Data measured incorrectly

Question 27

How can errors in experiments be reduced to improve accuracy?

Answer 27

* Identify variables before the experiment * Ensure all necessary items are present for multiple trials * Use correct measuring equipment

Question 28

True or False: Scientists repeat experiments to ensure reliability and validity.

Answer 28

True

Question 29

Validity

Answer 29

Validity refers to the accuracy and reliability of the results from an experiment, ensuring that the experiment truly measures what it intends to measure. To determine if an experiment is valid: Control variables: Ensure that other factors are controlled so they don't influence the outcome. Measurement accuracy: Use precise instruments and reliable methods for data collection. Appropriate design: Choose the correct experimental design and sample size. Clear operational definitions: Define variables clearly so they are consistently measured. Replication: Repeating the experiment or having it peer-reviewed helps confirm validity.

Question 30

Reliability

Answer 30

Reliability refers to the consistency and stability of the results when an experiment is repeated under similar conditions. To determine if an experiment is reliable: Repeatability: The experiment should yield similar results when repeated. Consistency of measurement: Ensure instruments and methods produce consistent results over time. Inter-rater reliability: If multiple people are involved in measurements, their results should align. Statistical analysis: Use statistical tools to assess the consistency of the data. Controlled conditions: Maintain the same environmental and procedural factors in each trial.

Question 31

Fairness

Answer 31

Fairness in an experiment ensures that all participants or subjects are treated equally and that the results are not biased. To determine if an experiment is fair: Equal treatment: All groups or individuals involved should receive the same conditions, except for the variable being tested. Randomization: Randomly assign participants or trials to avoid bias in selection. Elimination of bias: Control for factors that could unfairly influence the outcome (e.g., researcher bias, selection bias). Clear protocols: Use standardized procedures to ensure everyone is treated in the same way. Transparent methodology: Ensure that the experiment's design and procedures are clearly outlined and accessible.

Question 32

Accuracy

Answer 32

Accuracy refers to how close a measurement or result is to the true or accepted value. To determine if an experiment is accurate: Compare to a known standard: Use a known reference or standard to check the measured values. Precision of instruments: Ensure the tools used for measurement are properly calibrated and precise. Minimize error: Reduce systematic and random errors during data collection. Cross-check with other methods: Use different methods or instruments to verify results. Repeat measurements: Conduct multiple trials and check if results consistently align with the true value.