Introduction To
Seventh Grade Science
Scientific Method, Law, Theory
and Safety
Vocabulary
Science-knowledge of the physical and material
world gained through observation and
experimentation.
Scientist- expert in science who is organized,
maintains data, and experiments.
Life Science- the study of living things. Ex: biology,
ecology, botany, etc.
Physical Science- study of matter, energy, chemistry,
physics, and astronomy.
Earth Science- study of the earth, landforms,
earthquakes, weather, rocks, minerals, etc.
Scientific Method
Scientific Method- method used by scientists to
solve everyday problems.
Steps to the Scientific Method1.) Define the problem
2.) Form a hypothesis (Testable Prediction)
3.) Test Hypothesis (Steps in experiment)
4.) Collect Data/Results
5.) Analyze Data/Results (Graph)
6.)Draw a Conclusion (Did we support the
hypothesis)
Independent Vs. Dependent Variable
Independent Variable- the factor that can be
adjusted by the experimenter
Dependent Variable- the factor that changes as a
result of the independent variable
Example of Independent VariableAmount of water given to a plant each week
(Daily 3-5 times a week)
Dependent Variable- plant growth based on water
given
Scientific Law Vs. Theory
• Scientific Theory- a description of nature
based on many observations; subject to
change when evidence changes
Example: Evolution
• Scientific Law- a rule that describes a pattern
in nature and what will happen under specific
conditions
Example: Newton’s Laws of Motion
Science Safety Rules
1.) Do NOT eat anything in the lab
2.) Stay in your seat unless instructed otherwise
3.) Do not block the aisles
4.) Wear safety goggles and equipment as
needed
5.) Respect all classroom materials and follow
directions