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Scientific Facts
Scientific FactsHow discovery is made
Scientific examinations

How discovery is made

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SCIENTIFIC MODEL / THE DISCOVERY TRAIL

How discovery is made

A model represents. A method puts the representation at risk.

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A scientific model is a simplified account of a system. The scientific method is the wider practice of asking questions, deriving predictions, testing them and revising what is believed. [44-45]

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DISCOVERY PLATE / Inquiry can begin at several points. New observations, criticism and independent tests can reopen any stage. The arrows are invitations to return. [44]

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Departmental finding: A useful model risks being wrong in a way that can be checked. A decorative seal has not been found to improve its predictions.

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Reality has been authorized to disagree with the explanation.

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01 OBSERVE

Notice; ask a question

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02 MODEL

State rules and assumptions

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03 PREDICT

Specify a result in advance

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04 TEST

Measure with controls

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05 COMPARE

Check result against forecast

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06 REVISE

Share; change; test again

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EVIDENCE CAN REOPEN ANY STAGE

A tidy route. An untidy reality.

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