Back to Scientific Inquiry & Application Practices (ELL)

Study Guide

Quick meanings for every word. Pair terms with visuals to support newcomers.

WordMeaning
ClassifyClassify means put things into groups.
CommunicateCommunicate means share ideas or results.
CompareCompare means see how things are the same or different.
ConcludeConclude means say what you learned.
DataData is information you collect.
Design CycleThe design cycle is plan, test, and improve.
EngineerAn engineer designs and builds solutions.
EvidenceEvidence is data that supports an idea.
InferInfer means make a guess using evidence.
InterpretInterpret means explain what data means.
InvestigateInvestigate means study a question.
JustifyJustify means explain why with evidence.
MeasureMeasure means find size, length, or amount.
ObserveObserve means use your senses.
OrganizeOrganize means put things in order.
Predict / HypothesisPredict means guess what will happen. A hypothesis is a testable prediction.
QuestionA question asks for information.
RecordRecord means write down data.
RelateRelate means connect ideas.
ScienceScience is the study of the natural world.
AcidicAcidic means sour or strong. Low pH.
AcidityAcidity shows how acidic something is.
AlkalinityAlkalinity shows how basic something is.
AtomsAtoms are the smallest parts of matter.
BasicBasic means not acidic. High pH.
Changes in MatterMatter can change. Physical change: shape changes. Chemical change: new substance forms.
Chemical EquationA chemical equation shows a reaction.
CompoundsCompounds are two or more elements bonded.
Conservation of MassMass is not created or destroyed.
ElementsElements are basic substances.
FamiliesFamilies are columns on the periodic table.
GroupsGroups are elements with similar properties.
IndicatorAn indicator changes color to show pH.
Litmus PaperLitmus paper shows if something is acidic or basic.
MetalsMetals are shiny and conduct electricity.
MixturesMixtures are substances mixed together.
MoleculesMolecules are atoms joined together.
NeutralNeutral means not acidic or basic. pH = 7.
Noble GasesNoble gases do not react easily.
Non-MetalsNon-metals are not shiny and do not conduct well.
Periodic Table of ElementsThe periodic table organizes elements.
PeriodsPeriods are rows on the periodic table.
pHpH measures acidity or basicity.
pH ScaleThe pH scale goes from 0 to 14.
Phase ChangeA phase change is solid, liquid, or gas changing.
PhenolphthaleinPhenolphthalein is a pH indicator. It changes color.
PropertiesProperties describe matter. Color, hardness, density.
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