Standard 1 Vocabulary

1. Hypothesis - A tentative explanation for an observation that can be tested by further investigation.

2. Dependent Variable - A variable whose value is determined by the value of an independent variable.

3. Independent Variable - A variable whose value determines the value of other variables.

4. Data - Information organized for study.

5. Technology - The use of scientific knowledge to solve problems for the use of mankind.

6. Theory - An assumption based on limited information or knowledge.

7. Bias - A preference, especially one that inhibits impartial judgment.

8. Scientific Method - a method of research in which a problem is identified, relevant data are gathered, a hypothesis is formed from these data, and the hypothesis is tested.

9. Standard - A basis of comparison.

10. Volume - The amount of space an object occupies.

11. Experiment - A test under controlled conditions that is made to examine the validity of a hypothesis.

12. Mass - The amount of matter contained in an object.

13. Constant – A variable that is kept the same throughout an experiment.

14. SI – (International System of Units) Standard set of units of measurement.

15. Derived Unit - A unit derived from fundamental units of length, mass, and time.

16. Model – A representation of a concept or idea that is too large, too small, or too dangerous to observe in person.

17. Density - The mass per unit volume of a substance.

18. Scientific Law - An observation of nature that has occurred repeatedly without fail when certain conditions exist.

19. Control - A standard of comparison for verifying the results of an experiment.

20. X – Axis - The horizontal axis of a two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system.

21. Y – Axis - The vertical axis of a two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system.

22. Precision - The ability of a measurement to be consistently reproduced.

23. Accuracy - A given measurement agrees with the standard value for that measurement.