1. Cornell Notes

2. The 6 Steps of the Scientific Method

3. What is the Scientific Method?
Systematic approach used in scientific study
An organized process used by scientist to conduct research
Provides a method for scientist to verify the work of others

4. Step 1: Observation
gathering information to find a solution or explanation to a problem
involves using your senses to gather information
involves the use of existing knowledge

5. Observation Types Quantitative (numbers) Qualitative (words)
Information that describes numbers and amounts
ex. weight, height, temperature, volume
Qualitative (words)
Information that describes things that cannot be expressed in numbers
ex. color, shape, odor, taste

6. Step 2: Inference
A logical explanation based on observations and/or facts

7. IF ________________ then _________________
Step 3: Hypothesis
A tentative explanation for what has been observed.
Needs to be a testable statement or prediction
Independent variable
Dependant variable
IF ________________ then _________________

8. The light on my flashlight is not working…………………………….
Hypothesis #1 If ___________________ then ___________________
Hypothesis #2 If ___________________ then ___________________

9. Step 4: Experiment
Steps to collecting data to support or deny the hypothesis
The testing of variables:
Independent variable – the variable that you plan to change in the experiment
Dependent variable – value that changes in response to changing the independent variable
Control – a standard for comparison where no variable have been changed

10. Step 5: Analysis Study the data you have collected
Calculations and graphs are observed and interpreted.

11. Step 6: Conclusion A judgment based on the information/ data obtained
Determines if the evidence supports or denies the hypothesis
may need to revise the hypothesis and conduct again

12. Step 2 - Inference
Create inferences based on your questions and the information gathered
An inference is a possible explanation for your observations based on your information and prior knowledge
An inference is therefore not initially considered correct
...Basil will protect me from mosquitoes

13. Step 1 - Observations Using your senses to observe the events
I see and feel a mosquito biting me
The areas bitten are swollen, red, and itchy (qualitative)
I count 3 bites on my arm (quantitative)

14. Step 3 - Hypothesis
A testable explanation of your inference – “If (inference), then (predicted outcome)” The predicted outcome is how you will test if your inference is correct
…“If I rub basil leaves on my arm and expose it to mosquitoes, then I will receive fewer bites than when I don’t use basil”

15. Step 4 - Experimentation
Design and run a proper experiment based on your hypothesis

16. Step 5 - Analysis
Make sense of the data collected by looking for patterns, trends, meaning, etc.
Counting # of bites on arm with basil
Counting # of bites on arm with no basil

17. Step 6 - Conclusion
Based on your analysis of the data, determine if your hypothesis is correct
What if…?
6 bites with basil
12 bites without
Does data
Support hypothesis
Not support

18. Summary - Cornell Notes
In your own words, briefly summarize at the bottom of your notes:
What you learned about the scientific method?
Why it is important?
How does it apply to your life?

19. Scientific Method - Thinking Maps
Draw a flow map to show the steps in the scientific method
Flow map shows sequence (steps)
Use arrows to show flow
Write one item under
Each step to help you
Remember the main idea