Scientific Method Scientific Method – Process of critical thinking that uses observations and experiments to investigate testable predictions about the physical universe. Steps of the Scientific Method: 1.Observations and question 2.Hypothesize 3.Experiment 4.Observe and record data 5.Analyze and form conclusions 6.Share results

Make Observations Observations- Noticing objects or events using the five senses. We use our senses to make observations. Smell Sight Touch Taste Hearing

Form a Hypothesis Based on Observations and Questions Hypothesis- A testable explanation for observations and questions about the physical universe. When forming a hypothesis use the format. If ___________________ then __________________ * A hypothesis should be able to be tested.

Develop an experiment to test your hypothesis. Experiment- A test using observations and controlled variables to discover answers to questions, and/or to check a hypothesis. A successful experiment must include… An Independent variable – a factor that is intentionally changed throughout the experiment. (such as weight, temperature, etc.) Changing A Dependent variable – a factor that changes depending on the independent variable and can be measured. (what happens as weight changes, or temperature changes) Depends on A Control- Is the standard that the researcher compares the data too. (what happens when no weight is added or subtracted, or the temperature doesn’t change) Standard A Constant – factors in an experiment that stay the same. Same

During an Experiment You follow a Procedure. Procedure- An ordered series of steps followed to help answer a question. You will observe and record Data. Data- Information, measurements and materials gathered from observations that are used to help answer questions. Data can be either quantitative or qualitative.

Analyze the Data to form Conclusions When data is quantitative a graph or diagram can be used to see if the data is accurate or precise. Accuracy – all of the data is “close” to each other. Precision – the data is “close” to your goal. Possible outcomes: Your data is Precise and Accurate (the data supports your hypothesis) Your data is Precise but not Accurate (there is not enough data to support your hypothesis) Your data is Accurate but not Precise (while this might disprove your hypothesis it may point you to another possible hypothesis) Your data is not Accurate or Precise (Something may have went wrong in your experiment)

Analyze the Data to form Conclusions When data is qualitative the information is not usually numerical, so it is up for interpretation. Interpret – explain the meaning of what you observed using your own words. *In an experiment qualitative data might be observing a reaction ex: smoke, something blowing up etc. Possible outcomes: Your data disproves your Hypothesis. (Supports) Your data fails to disprove your hypothesis (Doesn’t Support)