The Scientific Method

Study Jam Video Link http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/science/scientific-inquiry/scientific-methods.htm

What is the Scientific Method? Step-by-step way in which scientists answer questions. 1. Ask a question. 2. Research the topic. 3. Form a hypothesis. 4. Test the Hypothesis. 5. Gather Data. 6. Analyze Results. 7. Draw Conclusions. 8. Communicate Results.

State the Purpose/Question The purpose identifies what you want to find out. Make sure your purpose is specific and clear. State the problem in the form of a question: How does __________ affect _______? What is the effect of _______ on ________?

Research Write down all information you already know. Do research on the topic you are investigating. While researching, begin to think of how you could test and answer your question. Keep all of your research in your composition book. Be sure to cite the sources you use for your bibliography later!!

What is a hypothesis? An explanation that is based on prior scientific research or observations and that can be tested. “Educated Guess” “If… then… because” Statement

Experiment Develop an experiment to test your hypothesis. Experiment must be run multiple times to see results that happen because of independent variable

Independent Variable What is changed by the scientist on purpose

Dependent Variable What changes as a result of the independent variable

Controlled Variables Kept constant (the same) by scientists to get accurate results

“Put it to the Test” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kf51FpBuXQ

How can you gather data? Make observations. Use your senses to gather information and record your results.

How can you analyze results to determine patterns? Write observations and measurements. Be consistent when you are checking your experiments and recording the results. Create tables or charts.

How can you draw conclusions? Answer the following questions in paragraphs. Do your results/data support your hypothesis? Why or why not? What are ways you can improve your data? What would you do differently if you were to repeat the experiment?

Let’s try! *Think back to our density experiment with diet sodas verses non-diet sodas in the water. * What was our question? What was your hypothesis? Controlled variable? (what did we keep the same on purpose) Independent variable? (what did we change on purpose) Dependent variable? (what changed because of the independent variable) What did we observe? How could we have recorded our data? Our conclusion?

Let’s try! Six bean plants are to be tested to see what happens if light is taken away. They all have the same type of container, the same amount of soil, and they will receive the same amount of water. Three will be placed in a sunlit window and 3 will be placed in a dark closet for 2 weeks. 1. What is the question? 2. What would be researched? 3. Form a Hypothesis. 4. How is the hypothesis being tested?

Let’s try! 4a. What are the controlled variables? 4b. What is the independent variable? 4c. What is the dependent variable? 5. How could we gather data?

Let’s try! 6. Analyze results. 6a. How can you show your results? 7. Draw conclusions. 7a. What kinds of things would you include in a conclusion paragraph? ***Where will I write all of this stuff??***

“Prepare for the Science Fair” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7e5XU0HKFLA

Yeah. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlb7tLJy5AI