1. Used by scientists to gain knowledge… It typically has 5-7 steps
The Scientific Method
Used by scientists to gain knowledge…
It typically has 5-7 steps
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2. Make an Observation – STEP 1
Use your five senses to gather information about objects or events
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Form a Question
Based on observations; one or more questions are generated
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4. Forming a Hypothesis – STEP 2
A hypothesis is an educated guess and must be testable (evidence can be collected that either does or doesn‘t support it)
It is often written in the form of an “if-then” statement
However, it can never be proven beyond doubt.
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5. Design an Experiment – STEP 3
Testing a hypothesis or prediction by conducting a controlled experiment
Based on a comparison of a control group with an experimental group
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6. Control group is considered to be under normal conditions.
Constants are all of the variables in the experiment that are kept the same in both the experimental and control groups.
Both groups are identical except for one factor (independent variable)
Experimental group is the group in which one variable (independent ) is being changed. This group is not considered to be under normal conditions
Control group is considered to be under normal conditions.
Independent variable is the variable that scientists change deliberately
The variable “I”, the scientist, changes
Dependent variable si the variable that changes in response to the changed variable. Also known as the responding variable

7. Observations and measurements are taken for the dependent variable in both groups

8. Record and Analyze Data – STEP 4
Involves gathering information from your experiment
This yields two kinds of data:
Quantitative – which results in numbers (#s)
Qualitative – which results in descriptions (color, smell)
Data is recorded in graphs, charts, tables, or maps

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Conclusion – STEP 5
Conclusions
ACCEPT or REJECT your hypothesis
Often are made on the basis of facts, not observations and drawn from data gathered from a study or experiment
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10. Repeat the Experiment – Step 6
The experiment should be repeatable so that one can confirm the data

11. Communication – STEP 6
Scientists must share the results of their studies with other scientists (peers)
Publish findings in journals
Scientists must be unbiased
Should not tamper with their data
Only publish & report tested & proven ideas
Sharing of information is essential to scientific process
Subject to examination and verification by other scientists
Allows scientists to build on the work of others

12. Your Turn Get groups of 2 or 3
Each person in the group will be used as a test subject and should have their own data table.
Perform experiment: Test the effects of physical activity on heart rate.
Draw graphs and come up with the conclusion
One lab report per person will be submitted. Lab Report is due on Monday, August 31st by 10 am into the haiku dropbox.

13. Homework due before class on Monday, August 31st, 2015
Share syllabus with a parent and have them sign it and bring to class with you.
Heart Rate Lab Report