The Scientific Method Notes A notes page is being handed out to you by our TA As we discuss the notes, please fill in the blanks Once completed, paste your notes into the next blank page of your science notebook

Step 1 – Purpose/Problem Stated in the form of a question. What information are we wanting to know? Make observations – use your senses to gather information Make inferences – an interpretation based on observations and prior knowledge

Step 2 – Hypothesis Use your observations to develop a possible answer to the Purpose/Problem question (an educated guess) Must be testable Repeated tests must provide evidence that supports the hypothesis

Step 3 – Experiment A careful examination or search in order to discover facts or gain information An experiment has a step-by-step set of instructions that explains how to conduct your test. A material’s list is also available

Step 3 – Experiment (cont) Variables – all the factors that could affect the outcome of the experiment Collect data – facts, figures, descriptions, and all other evidence

Step 4 – Analyze Your Results Examine in detail Organize the data you collected into a table, chart, or graph Look for patterns or trends

Step 5 – Conclusion A final judgment or decision Was your hypothesis correct or incorrect? Use the data you collect to support your conclusion If your hypothesis is incorrect, it’s back to the drawing board! Communicate your conclusion by sharing ideas and experimental findings to learn from one another