Understanding the Scientific Method Chapter 1 Biology

Learning Targets I will describe the parts of the scientific method I will describe how to collect, organize, and analyze data I will explain how results are used to draw conclusions

Scientific Method The Scientific Method is a series of steps that scientists use to investigate a natural occurrence –Scientific inquiry begins with an observation Observations are direct methods of gather information in an orderly way (ex. Draw a picture, create a chart, take measurements, etc.)

Scientific Method After making an observation, scientists combine their observation with what they already know – this makes an inference. –Inferences are logical conclusions drawn from processing your observation with the information you have learned through reliable sources

Scientific Method The exact scientific method is not always the same but each time they conduct an experiment, scientist both observe and infer through the entire process.

Scientific Method 7 Steps of the Scientific Method: 1.State the Problem 2.Form a Hypothesis 3.Experiment 4.Gather Data 5.Analyze Data 6.Form a Conclusion 7.Retest

Scientific Method 1.State the Problem – State the problem that to be solved through experimentation Ex: Does the amount of sunlight effect the growth of a plant? 2.Form a Hypothesis – Hypothesis – explanation for a question or problem that can be tested Ex: If a plant receives more sunlight, then it will grow taller

Scientific Method 3.Experiment – Create and conduct a procedure that tests a hypothesis by collecting information under controlled conditions Constant - variable(s) that are kept the same Ex: soil type, plant type, container size, source of light, etc. Independent Variable – variable that changes Ex: Amount of Sunlight Dependent Variable – the variable we measure Ex: Height of the plants Control Group – the group that is the standard against which results are compared Ex: A plant that is not given any sunlight

Scientific Method 4.Gather Data – Data – information gained from observations Qualitative – information that can be described in words and not measured numerically Ex: color, smell, etc. Quantitative – information that can be collected numerically Ex: height, weight, hours, etc.

Scientific Method 5.Analyze Data – Scientists often use graphs and charts to display the data to find patterns

Scientific Method 6.Form a Conclusion Scientists use their collected information to see if their hypothesis was right Often, the scientist then publishes their findings in order to share with peers and the public 7.Retest Experiments are often redone by either the original scientist or another scientist to see if they were correct