1. Scientific Method

2. 5 Steps in the Scientific Method
Observations
Hypothesis
Test hypothesis/Experiment
Collect & Analyzing data
Evaluate results

3. Observations AKA question or problem. Ex. How did life begin?
Used to create a hypothesis.

4. Hypothesis
A suggested solution to the problem based on observations and research.
Predicts an outcome
Must be testable
Format - If…Then… statements

5. Test Hypothesis AKA Experiment
A VALID experiment will have 2 variables (factors in the experiment that change.)

6. Variables
Independent Variable – manipulated variable, the part of the experiment that is changed on purpose.
Dependent Variable – responding variable, the part of the experiment that may change based on the independent variable.

7. Variables Continued…
Constant - Variables in the experiment that are kept the same on purpose.
Control Group - experimental group that the scientist does NOT test with the independent variable, receives no treatment, used as a comparison

8. EXPERIMENT EXPERIMENTAL GROUP CONTROL GROUP Check the results in time
Difference is the
independent variable
CONTROL
GROUP
Compare the
dependent variable
Check the results
in time
Check the results
in time

9. Example of Controls & Variables
For example, suppose you want to figure out the fastest route to walk home from school.
You will try several different routes and time how long it takes you to get home by each one.
Since you are only interested in finding a route that is fastest for you, you will do the walking yourself.

10. What are the Variables in Your Experiment?
Varying the route is the
_____________________
The time it takes is the
Keeping the same walker throughout makes the walker a
independent variable
dependent variable
Constant

11. Collect & Analyzing Data
Qualitative data– describes characteristics
Quantitative data – numbers, can count or measure

12. Graphing Data
Line Graph – shows change over time, shows patterns over time
Bar Graph – shows comparisons of discrete data
Pie Chart – shows parts of a whole

13. Analyzing data depends on GraphingM I X
ependent
esponds
-axis
anipulate
ndependent
Choosing the best type of graph for the data
Choosing a useful scale for the graph
Labeling the graph

14. Evaluate Results AKA Make Conclusions
The answer to the hypothesis based on the data obtained from the experiment

15. Theory Seeks to explain an event or phenomenon in nature.
Has an overwhelming amount of observations and has been tested over a wide variety of conditions by many different people.
Can be modified and changed has no information emerges.

16. Law
Based on experimental evidence
Tells WHAT happens, not WHY