Science in Action
Science is all about answering questions. But is it a straightforward process from asking the first question to finding the final answer? Often not! The scientific method moves through a repeating pattern of questioning, researching, testing and learning more. We’ve seen the scientific method in practice since the beginning of the pandemic. As scientists gathered more data, sometimes they got new answers and better insight. And health advice changed. Find out why it’s important to understand the scientific process—and try it for yourself!
| Goal 2 | Develop the skills, strategies, and habits of mind required for scientific inquiry and technological problem solving. |
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| A1. | Demonstrate scientific investigation skills (related to both inquiry and research) in the four areas of skills (initiating and planning, performing and recording, analysing and interpreting, and communicating.) |
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Learn about the steps that scientists use to get from a question to an answer. Find out the difference between anecdotes, case reports and controlled trials—and why we weigh them differently. Don’t be discouraged when advice about COVID-19 changes. After all, that’s just evidence that you are watching the scientific method in action!
Science in Practice
Gather data like a scientist! Try it now with dice. When you roll them, are they fair? Roll again. And again. What do the numbers tell you?
Find out with this hands-on activity.
This project has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada.