Observation

1
Observation

• Use of one or more of the senses to gather
  information
• Must be objective observation- information that
  has a meaning independent of an individuals
  experience.
• NOT a subjective observation-
• information that has meaning based on
  individual experience

2
Observation continued

• Qualitative observation- non-numerical
  observations
• Quantitative observation- numerical observation

3
Inference

• A logical interpretation based on prior knowledge
  or experience.

4
Assumption

• Something taken for granted or accepted as true
  without proof.
• An inference CAN be an assumption.

5
Scientific Theory vs. Scientific Law

• Applies to a well-tested explanation that unifies
  a broad range of observations. Broader in
  scope, and give overarching explanations of how
  nature works.
• Accepted by the scientific community.
• Allows scientists to make accurate predictions
  about new situations.
• NOT a guess or a belief that can guide behavior

• A phenomenon of nature that has been proven to
  always occur whenever certain conditions exist or
  are met.
• Does not suggest a mechanism or explanation of
  phenomena, just results of repeated testing.
• called natural law