enquiry

Scientific enquiry

** 1 Use methods of scientific investigation**
 1.1      Identify and develop a clearly focused research question.  1.2      Make predictions directly related to a research question.  1.3      Identify and control variables.  1.4      Work constructively and adaptively with others as a team on a scientific investigation.  1.5      Evaluate experimental design, identify weaknesses and develop realistic strategies for improvement.  1.6      Work in an ethical manner with regard to acknowledging data sources and authenticity of results.  1.7      Work in an ethical manner with regard to living things and the environment.  1.8      Identify, and make critical use of, secondary information.

** 2 Know how scientists work**
 2.1      Understand the historical development of the major scientific ideas.  2.2      Know how scientists disseminate their ideas and results to encourage discussion and further development. Know how scientific work is affected by its economic, social, cultural, moral and spiritual contexts. (G12)  2.3      Know that science can bring great advantages to humanity but can also cause considerable damage to the environment. Show an understanding of the power and limitations of science in addressing industrial, social and environmental questions. (G12) 2.4   Understand the importance of refutation in the replacement of a prevailing scientific paradigm with a new one. (G12)  2.5      Recognise that the development of scientific ideas often proceeds in periods of major changes followed by periods of slow elaboration.(G12) 2.6   Appreciate the significance of the development of probabilistic foundations of our understanding of natural phenomena.(G12)

** 3 Process and communicate information**
 3.1      Record raw data appropriately in a manner that allows easy interpretation.  3.2      Process raw data by the most appropriate means.  3.3      Draw valid conclusions, allowing for errors and uncertainties.  3.4      Use an appropriate range of methods to communicate scientific information.

** 4 Handle equipment and make measurements**
<span style="border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; font-size: 10pt; border-left: medium none; border-bottom: medium none; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; msobidifontfamily: 'Times New Roman';"> 4.1      Select and use correctly and competently the appropriate equipment and materials for an investigation, with due regard for the safety of self and others. <span style="border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; font-size: 10pt; border-left: medium none; border-bottom: medium none; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; msobidifontfamily: 'Times New Roman';"> 4.2      Follow instructions accurately but be able to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.