1. Scientific Method
Biology I

2. Definition of scientific method
Series of steps in a logical order that scientists use to help them solve problems
There are 8 steps
Observe
State the problem
Form a hypothesis
Conduct a controlled experiment
Collect data
Draw conclusion
Conduct multiple trials (repeat experiment)
Publish results

3. observation
Start with an observation, a question, or a problem.

4. State the problem What do you want to find out ? Research the problem.
What is already known about the problem?
Problem- question that needs solving

5. Form a hypothesis
Develop a testable statement that tells what you think will happen.
Hypothesis- testable statement for a problem

6. Conduct a controlled experiment
Determine the dependent and independent variables.
Determine what you will use as controls in the experiment.
Experiment- a set of steps performed to collect data
Independent variable- what the experimenter changes
Dependent variable- what is being measured, counted, or observed
Controls- elements that are kept the same in the experiment also known as constants
Control Group- group that does not receive the independent variable
Experimental group- group(s) that receive the Independent variable

7. Collect data
Determine what types of data you will collect? (tables, charts)
How will you interpret your data? (diagrams, graphs)
Tables- used to record data during an experiment
Quantitative data- numbers, measurements
Qualitative data- information that is not numbers
Graphs- used to display data for easy interpretation
Diagrams- used to display data to show relationships between objects or parts
Upward Trend- data on graph increases over time
Downward trend- data on graph decreases over time
Peaking Trend – data on graph increases over time, reaches a high point and then decreases
Constant Trend- data on graph stays the same

8. Bar Graph- used to show categories
Line graph- used to show change over time
Pie or Circle graph- used to show data as parts of a whole

9. Draw conclusions Based on your data, was your hypothesis correct?
If it was not correct, can you develop a new hypothesis?
Conclusion- what you find out from the experiment based on the data collected

10. Conduct multiple trials
Repeat the experiment to see if your results are the same or if they differ.
If the experiment is repeated many times under similar conditions, then it may lead to a theory.
Trials- the number of times you repeat an experiment
Theory – idea that is accepted as true because so much evidence supports it

11. Publish results
Share what you have learned with your fellow scientists.

12. Any questions about the scientific method?