1. Scientific Method
Process used by scientists (everyone/anyone) to determine a solution.
“Method” means there is a consistent and reproducible way of doing something
If you need to determine a solution then you must have a problem.

2. Steps of the Scientific Method
1. State the problem
2. Gather information about the problem
3. Form a hypothesis
Hypothesis
Suggested solution to the problem
Educated guess based on information from step 2
4. Design/conduct an experiment
5. Gather/analyze data
Data
information from an experiment
6. Form conclusion based on data and determine whether hypothesis was correct or incorrect with support data

3. Experimental Process: Terms of recognition
What is an experiment?
An experiment is a test between two or more “groups”
Series of ordered (numbered) steps to test a hypothesis
Terms:
1. Experimental Group
group in which the suggested solution is applied too
2. Control Group
group which is given “normal” conditions
3. Variable
the thing that is different between the experimental and control groups

4. What are the Control and Experimental Groups?

5. What are the Independent and Dependent Variables?
Independent: Sun
Dependent: Plant Growth

6. Independent vs Dependent Variable
Independent Variable stands alone and isn’t changed by other things you are trying to measure.(i.e., SUN)
Dependent Variable depends on other factors. (i.e., PLANT)
(Independent Variable) causes a change in (Dependent Variable) and it isn’t possible that (Dependent Variable) could cause a change in (Independent Variable)

7. Problem
A suggested solution to the problem Gathering

8. Theory vs Law
A THEORY is a thoroughly tested explanation of why experiments give certain results.
Cannot be proved – possible that a new experiment may disprove it.
Example: Theory of Evolution
Theories explain
A scientific LAW is a concise statement that summarizes the results of a broad spectrum of observations and experiments.
Describes a natural phenomenon
Example: Law of Gravity
Laws describe

9. Your Turn
Work in pairs.
Choose an everyday type of problem, such as a car that won’t start. Explain how you would use the scientific method to solve the problem.