1. How can we find answers to our own questions?

2. Unit Questions
Why is it important to find our own answers to questions?
What are the steps of the scientific method?
How can the scientific method be applied to answer questions?

3. Presented by Tracy Smith ED 503
The Scientific Method
Presented by
Tracy Smith
ED 503

4. Overview Definition of the Scientific Method
Steps of the Scientific Method
Types of research
Steps of experimental design

5. The Scientific Method
A step-by-step process that allows one to find answers to his own questions or to solve his own problems.

6. Steps of the Scientific Method
Observe
Identify question/problem
Research question/problem
Develop hypothesis
Design Experiment
Test hypothesis
Collect data
Communicate results

7. Types of Research
Definitional
Historical
Experiential

8. Question What factors affect the growth of a plant? Light Water Soil
Size of pot

9. Hypothesis
If a plant is exposed to light, then it will grow.

10. The Experiment Experimental Group – exposed to light
Control Group – no light exposure
Independent Variable – light exposure
Dependent Variable – plant growth

11. Test Hypothesis
Conduct experiment
Collect data

12. Communicate Results Present results in graphic form
Oral report explains experimental results

13. Scientific Method Summary
It can be used to answer questions or solve problems.
It is simple to use.
It is essential in the development of scientific reasoning.

14. Sources http://www.mce.k12tn.net/science_fair/scientific_method.htm