1.05 When in Rome: Science as a Process

The Romans were great philosophers and scientists. Their tradition was passed down to one famous fellow - Galileo - an Italian scientist and inventor. Galileo was one of the first to use the Scientific Method; interestingly enough, to support and prove his ideas in musical theory. So as you see, this process can be used to solve just about any kind of problem, even questions about music.

In the first part of this activity you reviewed and learned the steps of the whole process, but at the heart of the process is the experiment. An experiment is a procedure that is set up to test a hypothesis.

Watch the video clips linked below to gain an understanding of the controlled experiment.

While watching, use the Notes Template to record information about these terms and ideas:

Note: The Notes Template is just that. You will find an explanation and examples of how you might use this page to take notes. You can delete the directions and examples when you are ready to use it.

• observations
• inferences
• controlled experiment
• variables
• control group
• experimental group
• Why are variables in an experiment "controlled"?

The Importance of Careful Observation (02:10) Setting Up a Controlled Experiment (02:00)

At this point in the activity, you should have a pretty good idea of the kinds of behaviors one must have to survive in the world of Science. Complete each of the self-check interactivities below to check your understanding of the Scientific Method and Experimental Procedure.

1. The Scientific Method
   
   The Scientific Method Self-Check

   Text-only version




2. The Experimental Method
   
   The Experimental Method Self-Check

   Text-only version

When you think you have it, move on to the Travel Log to complete this activity.