Created by Liz Bartimus The Scientific Method Created by Liz Bartimus

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

Step 1-Problem/Question: The scientific method starts when you ask a question about something that you observe: How, What, When, Who, Which, Why, or Where? And, in order for the scientific method to answer the question it must be about something that you can measure, preferably with a number.

Step 2-Observation/Research: Make observations and research your topic of interest.

Step 3-Develop a Hypothesis: Predict a possible answer(an educated guess) to the problem or question. It must be testable-something that can be proved right or wrong AND easily measured. Use if and then statements. Example: If soil temperatures rise, then plant growth will increase because warmer soil makes plants grow more.

Step 4-Experiment: a test to used to see if your hypothesis is right Step 4-Experiment: a test to used to see if your hypothesis is right. They follow a procedure ( a set of detailed steps) and include a detailed materials (what you will use) list. The outcome must be measurable (quantifiable with numbers).

Independent Variable which is graphed on the… X axis >With experiments comes a LOT of vocabulary: Variable-something that is can change in an experiment. To keep things straight, remember DRYMIX Dependent Variable-what you measure; it changes because of the independent variable; it is also called the… Responding variable because it responds to a change in something else. It is graphed on the ……. Y axis on a graph Manipulated variable is the one and only thing you change and test ON PURPOSE. Also called…. Independent Variable which is graphed on the… X axis

Control Group-An experimental group that has no changing variable during the experiment. Used for comparison. Constants-the variables that are the same for everything . For example if we wanted to see if more class time to start HW made a difference in grades we would keep the amount and type of HW the same for everyone. Only the time in class to do the HW would be diferent. Trial-a task that should be repeated several times to be sure your results are consistent or similar

Step 5-Collect and Analyze Results: Modify the procedure if needed Step 5-Collect and Analyze Results: Modify the procedure if needed. Confirm the results by retesting. Include tables, graphs, diagrams and photographs.

Step 6-Conclusion: A decision based on results Step 6-Conclusion: A decision based on results. The conclusion is important because it explains the results of the lab and what you learned by doing it. State the facts. Exact numbers, details, variables, etc. . Say WHY!....Explain why something did or did not happen. Wrap It Up! Talk about what you could do differently, sources of error, future tests. NOT INCLUDING A CONCLUSION PARAGRAPH WILL AUTOMATICALLY DROP A LAB GRADE!

Step 7-Communicate-share results -write a report or tell somebody Step 7-Communicate-share results -write a report or tell somebody. Be sure that you do not include your personal bias or opinion. Just state the facts. Sometimes we decide to do further research It is important that you know the steps of the scientific method in order.