The Nature of Science The scientist conducted the experiment as follows:
Hypothesis: Moss does not grow in direct sunlight.
Type of data: Qualitative – the side of rock on which moss grows.
Method 1. Use a compass to find which side of the rock moss grows on in woodland.
Fig. 8 Does moss grow in direct sunlight?
2. Gather the same information from other woodlands in Ireland. 3. Research moss growth in the southern hemisphere.
Results In Ireland moss grows on the north side of rocks, the side that does not get direct sunlight. In Australia moss grows on the south side of rocks, the side that does not get direct sunlight.
Communication of results A written report of the scientist’s findings could be completed. If it is new information her work may be published in a scientific journal.
Reviewing and reflecting on the experiment The scientist formed a hypothesis and her experiment allowed her to gather data to support her hypothesis. She visited several sites in Ireland and further tested her hypothesis by obtaining information from a country in the southern hemisphere. Using an observational experiment meant that she did not have to disturb the woodland environment for her experiment.
2 (b). An observational experiment that collects quantitative data A student noticed that the number of bird visits to a bird table with sunflower seeds was higher during cold weather. He decided to conduct an experiment to find out more about this.
Hypothesis: Garden birds feed more often at a bird table during cold weather. Type of data: Quantitative – the number of bird visits to the bird table between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. at two different temperatures.
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Fig. 9 Do garden birds feed more often at a bird table during cold weather?
