Scientific Method
All scientific investigations begin with observations in nature All scientific investigations begin with observations in nature. Once observations are made the scientific method is the steps taken to investigate natural occurrences.
The Scientific Method State the problem (in the form of a question) Gather information (research) Form a hypothesis Test the hypothesis Analyze the data Draw Conclusions Repeat the steps The Scientific Method
Develop the a question or problem that can be solve through an experiment State the Problem
Gather information Research you topic of interest. Use reliable sources to find information (ex. encyclopedias, scientific journals).
Predict an answer to the problem Predict an answer to the problem. The hypothesis is an educated guess, that should be based on research. Write an if, then statement. Ex. If the water faucet is open, then the amount of water flowing will increase. Form a Hypothesis
Test the Hypothesis Develop an experiment Develop and follow a procedure List the materials Make sure the outcomes are measurable. Test the Hypothesis
Test the Hypothesis cont. Experiments contains two variables or factors being tested: Independent(Manipulated) Variable- the factor intentionally varied by the experimenter Dependent (Responding) Variable- the factor that may change as a result of the changes made to the independent variable Experimental Group- The group being tested. Control Group- The group that serves as a standard of comparison. The control group undergoes the same conditions as the experimental group except for the variable being tested. Constants- All the factors that are kept the same through out the experiment Test the Hypothesis cont.
Analyze the Data Record Observations Organize data in tables and graphs Interpret the data. Analyze the Data
Make a statement to either accept or reject the hypothesis Make recommendations for ways to further study or to improve the procedure Draw Conclusions
Reduces bias Eliminates errors and mistakes Repeat the Work