Scientific Method

Steps of the Scientific Method

The Scientific Method - a process that is used to find answers to questions about the world around us.

Purpose Provides an organized method for conducting and analyzing an experiment

There is more than one scientific method. Some versions have more STEPS while some have a few.

Collect and Analyze Results Conclusion Communicate the Results Scientific Method Question Research Hypothesis Experiment Collect and Analyze Results Conclusion Communicate the Results

Steps of the Scientific Method 1. Question: Develop a question that can be solved through experimentation.

After you pose a problem but BEFORE the next step… 2. Research: find out more about your question

3. Formulate a Hypothesis: make an educated guess based on observations and your knowledge of the topic. Example: If soil temperatures rise, then plant growth will increase.

4. Create an Experiment: Develop a procedure with detailed materials list.

5. Perform the Experiment: Record your data.

What is data? It is information gathered during an experiment

6. Analyze the Data: Include a statement that accepts or rejects the hypothesis.

7. Communicate the Results: Be prepared to present the project to an audience.

Independent Variable - what you are testing for - whatever is intentionally changed during the experiment - what you are testing for

Dependent Variable The factor that may change as you change the independent variable. What you measure.

Control Group What you compare your results to.

Experimental Group(s) The groups that you are changing the conditions for. The groups that are being tested on.

Practice Finding Variables Controls and Variables - Spongebob 2

Scientific Method Activity Complete the Paper Airplane Activity by following ALL directions on your lab sheet. Directions to making a paper airplane. Airplane directions PowerPoint

Analyze Experiments Analyze Bikini Bottom’s Experiments (if needed)