Steps of the Scientific Method

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

Steps of the Scientific Method 1- Identify the Problem/Question Develop a question or problem that can be solved through experimentation. Example: Does soil temperature increase plant growth?

Steps of the Scientific Method 2- Gather Information/Observation Make observations and research the topic. Observations are made with any of your senses and can be enhanced by scientific tools or technology

Steps of the Scientific Method 3- Formulate a Hypothesis Predict a possible answer to the problem or question that can be tested [Educated Guess] If/then statement Example: If soil temperatures rise, then plant growth will increase.

Steps of the Scientific Method 4- Gather Materials Include all the items necessary Example: soil, plants, thermometer, water

Steps of the Scientific Method 5- Experiment Develop and follow a procedure. The outcome must be measurable.

Steps of the Scientific Method 6- Collect and Analyze Results Modify the procedure if needed. Confirm the results by retesting. Include tables, graphs, and photographs.

Steps of the Scientific Method 7- Conclusion Include a statement that accepts or rejects the hypothesis. Make recommendations for further study and possible improvements to the procedure.

Trials Trials refer to replicate groups that are exposed to the same conditions in an experiment.

Independent Variable The independent, or manipulated variable, is a factor that’s intentionally varied by the experimenter. Example: Temperature

Dependent Variable The dependent, or responding variable, is the factor that may change as a result of changes made in the independent variable. Example: Plant Growth

Control Group the control is the group that serves In a scientific experiment, the control is the group that serves as the standard of comparison. The control group may be a “no treatment" or an “experimenter selected” group.

Control Group The control group is exposed to the same conditions as the experimental group, except for the variable being tested. All experiments should have a control group. Example: Plants growing in soil where temperature is not altered

Observe your world and come up with a question to answer using the Scientific Method!

Identify the steps of the scientific method using one of the following Does the size of a fish tank determine how large a fish will grow? Does the amount of light affect plant growth? Does tomato juice make hair grow faster? Does the hormone estrogen increase the milk yield of diary cows? Do wounds heal faster when they are covered by band- aids? Does hot water freeze faster than cold water? Do tanning beds cause skin cancer? Create your own question