Introduction to the Scientific Method

Key Vocabulary Analyze - Review the data from an experiment to find out what they mean (evidence) (see interpret). Assumption - Something that is believed to be true without proof (see inference). Compare - Look at to find similarities and differences.

Key Vocabulary Conclusion - The summary of an experiment, based on data (reasoning). Data - Information from an experiment (evidence). Evidence - Data used to support a conclusion. Experiment - A test that is done to support or disprove a hypothesis (claim).

Key Vocabulary Hypothesis - An idea or question that can be tested (claim) (see predict). Inference - Assume a fact, without proof, based on previous experience (see assumption). Interpret - Explain what something means; explain results of an experiment (evidence) (see analyze).

Key Vocabulary Investigation - A process designed to answer a question. Measure - Obtain information about something (weight, length, width, height, etc.). Observe - To watch or look at something to get information (evidence).

Key Vocabulary Predict - Determine what you think will happen when you do an experiment before you do the experiment (claim) (see hypothesis). Qualitative Data - that cannot be expressed by numbers (the flower smells nice, pepperoni pizza is the best type of pizza, baseball is a better sport than football).

Key Vocabulary Quantitative Data - that can be expressed by numbers (there are 30 students in my class; I weigh 98 pounds; I ate a pound of potatoes). Variable - A part of an experiment that is changed. Science is Real

Steps in the Scientific Method Step I - A question or problem. Step II – Research. Step III – Hypothesis (claim). Step IV - Experiment.

Steps in the Scientific Method Step V – Analyze data (evidence). My hypothesis is correct. My hypothesis is incorrect. Start over

Steps in the Scientific Method Step VI – Conclusion Review III Review I Review II

Scientific Method Observations vs. Inference Quantitative vs. Qualitative Data