Strand 1: Inquiry Process
This section is 34.5 % of the test.



Concept 1: Observations, Questions, and Hypotheses
Formulate predictions, questions, or hypotheses based on observations.  Locate appropriate resources.

PO 1.  Formulate questions based on observations that lead to the development of a hypothesis.
PO 2.  Use appropriate research information, not limited to a single source, to use in the development of a testable hypothesis.
PO 3.  Generate a hypothesis that can be tested.

 
Concept 2:  Scientific Testing (Investigating and Modeling)
Design and conduct controlled investigations.

PO 1.  Demonstrate safe behavior and appropriate procedures (e.g., use and care of technology, materials, organisms) in all science inquiry.
PO 2.  Design a controlled investigation to support or reject a hypothesis.
PO 3.  Conduct a controlled investigation to support or reject a hypothesis.
PO 4.  Perform measurements using appropriate scientific tools (e.g., balances, microscopes, probes, micrometers).
PO 5.  Keep a record of observations, notes, sketches, questions, and ideas using tools such as written and/or computer logs.

 

Concept 3:  Analysis and Conclusions

Analyze and interpret data to explain correlations and results; formulate new questions.

PO 1.  Analyze data obtained in a scientific investigation to identify trends. 
PO 2.  Form a logical argument about a correlation between variables or sequence of events (e.g., construct a cause-and-effect chain that explains a sequence of events).
PO 3.  Interpret data that show a variety of possible relationships between two variables, including:
·         positive relationship
·         negative relationship
·         no relationship

PO 4.  Formulate a future investigation based on the data collected.
PO 5.  Explain how evidence supports the validity and reliability of a conclusion.
PO 6.  Identify the potential investigational error that may occur (e.g., flawed investigational design, inaccurate measurement, computational errors, unethical reporting).
PO 7.  Critique scientific reports from periodicals, television, or other media.
PO 8.  Formulate new questions based on the results of a previous investigation.

 

Concept 4: Communication

Communicate results of investigations.

PO 1.  Communicate the results of an investigation.
PO 2.  Choose an appropriate graphic representation for collected data:
·       line graph
·       double bar graph
·       stem and leaf plot
·       histogram

PO 3.  Present analyses and conclusions in clear, concise formats.  
PO 4.  Write clear, step-by-step instructions for conducting investigations or operating equipment  (without the use of personal pronouns).
PO 5.  Communicate the results and conclusion of the investigation.