1. The Scientific Method Ms. Spera

2.  The knowledge obtained by, observing natural events and conditions in order to discover facts and formulate laws or principles that can be verified or tested.

6. The Scientific Method involves a series of steps that are used to investigate a natural occurrence.

7. 1. Ask a question 2. Research the topic 3. Form a hypothesis 4. Test the hypothesis 5. Gather Data 6. Analyze Results 7. Draw Conclusions 8. Communicate Results

8.  The problem identifies what you want to find out  Develop a clear statement defining the problem  State the problem in the form of a question

9.  Make observations and research your topic of interest.

10.  Predict a possible answer to the problem or question. ◦ Example: If soil temperatures rise, then plant growth will increase.

11.  Develop a test to support your hypothesis  Must run multiple times  Must have only one independent and dependent variable  Must include two setups ◦ Control Group ◦ Experimental Group

12.  Independent Variable: The variable that is changed by the scientist; the ‘I control’ variable  Dependent Variable: The variable that might change because of what the scientist changes – what is being measured

13. Your hypothesis can TELL you what your variables are! Ex. If I drink Mountain Dew before bed, then I will not sleep very much. IV: Drinking Mountain Dew DV: the amount of sleep

14.  Develop and follow a procedure.  Include a detailed materials list.  The outcome must be measurable (quantifiable).

15.  Modify the procedure if needed.  Confirm the results by retesting.  Include tables and graphs

16.  Include a statement that accepts or rejects the hypothesis.  Make recommendations for further study and possible improvements to the procedure.

17.  Be prepared to present the project to an audience.  Expect questions from the audience.

18. Problem/QuestionObservation/Research Formulate a Hypothesis Experiment Collect and Analyze Results Conclusion Communicate the Results

19. http://www.biologycorner.com/worksheets/sci entific_method_plant_exp.html  http://www.mhhe.com/biosci/genbio/virtual_ labs/BL_01/BL_01.html http://www.mhhe.com/biosci/genbio/virtual_ labs/BL_01/BL_01.html