AP Scientific Method Objective Sheet

AP Scientific Method Objective Sheet

Name ______

AP Environmental ScienceDate ______Period ______

Chapter 3

Following are the ideas and objectives for you to master during this unit. This objective sheet will give you an idea of what will be covered, what you are responsible for understanding and what you should study for the test. Keep all objective sheets until the end of the year – you will use them to study for the semester exam and for the AP test in May.

1. Explain the difference between observation and inference and how each is used in the scientific process.

1. Describe two limits to the study of environmental science.
   
2. What is the goal of the scientific process?
   
3. What is the difference between accuracy and precision? Give two examples of each. Why is reproducibility important in science?
   
4. Compare and contrast the terms hypothesis, theory and natural law.

1. Describe the tradeoffs between experimental design systems: Lab research, animal research, epidemiological studies; case studies, field studies.

1. Analyze the description of a scientific experiment to identify the key parts: independent v. dependent variables, control v. experimental groups, and controlled variables.

1. Describe the steps and cycle of the scientific method that will be used in this course.

1. Explain the significance and effect of the 12 characteristics of bad science. Describe the contrasting good characteristics of each.
   

Essential Questions to ponder:

How do we live sustainably on our planet?

What tradeoffs must be considered if our society gets serious about making the transition from a consumptive society to a sustainable society?