IP Combined Science Notes (Lower Sec, Year 1-2): 01) Scientific Inquiry & Measurement

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06 Dec 2025, 00:00 Z

Q: What does IP Combined Science Notes (Lower Sec, Year 1-2): 01) Scientific Inquiry & Measurement cover?
A: Plan investigations, use appropriate measuring instruments, and convert units with significant figures and uncertainties.

Mastering scientific inquiry starts with disciplined measurement. Every experiment you run - from monitoring temperature change to tracking a plant's growth - demands clear objectives, calibrated tools, and consistent data handling.

Learning targets

Frame testable scientific questions with defined variables and controls.
Select appropriate instruments and determine their precision limits.
Convert between common SI units and express values with correct significant figures.
Analyse data trends, calculate gradients, and justify conclusions with evidence.

1. Variables & experimental design

Term	Definition	Lower-sec example
Independent variable	Factor you change deliberately.	Light intensity in a photosynthesis rate experiment.
Dependent variable	Factor you measure.	Bubble count per minute from aquatic plant.
Control variables	Factors held constant for fair testing.	Species of plant, temperature of water bath.

Write research questions using the format: "How does $\text{independent variable}$

Instrument	Smallest division	Typical precision	Notes
Vernier caliper	$\pu{0.1 mm}$	$\pm \pu{0.05 mm}$	Ideal for measuring rod diameter.
Micrometer screw gauge	$\pu{0.01 mm}$	$\pm \pu{0.005 mm}$	Use for thin wire thickness.
Measuring cylinder	$\pu{1 mL}$ (common)	$\pm \pu{0.5 mL}$	Read with eye at meniscus level.
Stopwatch (digital)	$\pu{0.01 s}$	$\pm \pu{0.005 s}$	Start/stop response adds human reaction error.

Quantity	Symbol	SI unit
Length	$l$	$\pu{m}$
Mass	$m$	$\pu{kg}$
Time	$t$	$\pu{s}$
Temperature	$T$	$\pu{K}$
Electric current	$I$	$\pu{A}$

IP Combined Science Notes (Lower Sec, Year 1-2): 01) Scientific Inquiry & Measurement

Learning targets

1. Variables & experimental design

2. Measuring instruments & precision

3. Unit conversions & significant figures

Base SI units

Worked example - Density conversion

4. Graphing & data analysis

Gradient calculation

Uncertainty interpretation

5. Drawing conclusions

Try it yourself

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