Terminology
This page provides you with information and links to some of the terminology used in the Tomatosphere Project. Where the same terminology is used in all three grade groupings (e.g. the definition of the term "germination"), the link is provided to the grade 5 section of the Teacher's Guide. However, you can also use this as a guide to the other grade levels.
- The Scientific Method
- Prediction, experiment, observation, and theory are outlined in the Principle Investigation area of the Teachers' Guide.
- Bias
- Sometimes our expectations determine the outcome of an experiment. Observers (unconsciously) record information that may not be accurate because of pre-conceived ideas.
- Blind Study
- A method to reduce biased observations made unconsciously by students during the process of data collection. The identity of the three different seed treatments is revealed after the experiment results have been sent to the Tomatosphere web site.
- Germination
- For purposes of this experiment, a seed can be considered to have successfully germinated when two (2) distinctly separate cotyledons (embryonic leaves) can be seen. For more information visit the Germination page of the "Tips 'n' Tricks" section or the Observations page of the Teachers' Guide
- Planting Medium
- Peat pellets are strongly recommended as the medium in which to germinate the tomato seeds.
- Photosynthesis
- A process whereby the plant uses light energy from the sun (or other light source) to synthesize carbohydrates from water and carbon dioxide. A diagram and more detailed information can be found in the Teachers' Guide.
- International Space Station
- In a partnership involving the United States, Russia, Japan, Canada and Europe, the world is sharing in the greatest international project of all time - the International Space Station (ISS). Once completed, the 450-tonne International Space Station will have more than 1200 cubic metres of pressurized space - enough room for seven crew and a vast array of scientific experiments. Click here to learn more about the International Space Station.
Tomatosphere is sponsored by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Canadian Space Agency, Heinz Canada, H.J. Heinz Company Foundation, Ontario Centres of Excellence, Stokes Seeds and the University of Guelph.
