Nature of Science

Based on a Presentation byRandy L. Bell

University of Virginiarandybell@virginia.edu

What is Science?

3-Aspects of Science

Scientific Knowledge

Nature of Science

Science Processes

FactsConceptsModelsLawsTheories

3-Aspects of Science

Science Processes

Scientific Knowledge

Nature of Science

Process Skills:QuestioningObservingMeasuringInferringPredictingClassifying

3-Aspects of Science

Scientific Knowledge

Nature of Science

Science ProcessesScience as a way of knowing

“The Practice of Science”

3-Aspects of Science

Scientific Knowledge

Nature of Science

Science Processes

The Nature of Science in Next Generation Sunshine State Standards

Big Idea 1: The Practice of ScienceA: Scientific inquiry is a multifaceted activity that includes:

– Scientific questions – Diverse investigations – Collection of data– Analysis of data – Communication of results

B: The processes of science frequently do not correspond to "the scientific method."

C: Scientific argumentation is a necessary part of scientific inquiry

D: Scientific knowledge is based on observation and inference; it is important to recognize that these are very different things.

Process & Nature of Science

Observation-–Using your 5 senses to gather information about your

surroundings

Inference-–A conclusion based on evidence–An “educated guess”

Effective Science Instruction

• Includes all 3 aspects of science:– Knowledge of Science– Processes of Science– Nature of Science

• Don’t Confuse Science Processes w/Nature of Science!

“Notice all the computations, theoretical scribblings, and lab equipment, Norm….Yes, curiosity killed these cats.”

data. data.

What’s the Point?

• Good way to practice making observations and inferences (process skills)

• Reinforces concept that scientific knowledge is based on observations and inferences (nature of science)

The “Proof” is in the Cookie

The “Proof” is in the Cookie

1. Make observations of cookie

The “Proof” is in the Cookie

1. Make observations of cookie 2. Make inferences about what’s inside

The “Proof” is in the Cookie

1. Make observations of cookie 2. Make inferences about what’s inside3. Eat the cookie; then revise inferences

The “Proof” is in the Cookie

1. Make observations of cookie 2. Make inferences about what’s inside3. Eat the cookie; then revise inferences 4. Discuss observation & inference

– Scientific knowledge is based on observation AND inference– Sometimes scientists can’t directly observe what they want to

know.– Good inferences allow us to be very sure of things we can’t

directly observe.

What treasure was inside your cookie?

“Field Geology” 201Your geology class is on a field trip to a fossil bed in Alberta, Canada. While exploring the site, you discover a slab of rock covered with interesting impressions. Your instructor invites the class to make observations and inferences about the imprints…