1. Scientific Method – Steps 1-2
A logical and organized method to solve a problem or answer a question
Problem - a question needing an answer
What do you want to know or explain?
Typically, observations are used to write a question about a topic.
Background Information – conduct research from reliable sources
You want to know as much about your topic as possible.

2. Scientific Method – Step 3
Hypothesis: an educated guess that can be tested
- Hypotheses are always written in the “If-Then” format.
- If _____ , then ______.
- When writing a hypothesis, it must be 3 things:
1. If, then statement
2. Testable through experimentation
3. Take a guess at the outcome
Example:
If a group of plants are given fertilizer, then the plants will grow taller than plants without fertilizer.

3. Scientific Method – Step 4
4) Experiment: Test hypothesis and collect quantitative (numbers) and qualitative (observations) data
Independent variable – the one and only factor that is changed by the experimenter
Dependent variable(s) – factor(s) that change due to the effect of the independent variable; can be measured
If a group of plants are given fertilizer, then the plants will grow taller than plants without fertilizer.

4. Scientific Method – Step 4
Control – a group or part of an experiment not exposed to the independent variable
Used as a comparison to see if the independent variable had an impact

5. Scientific Method – Step 4
Constants –factors that are kept the same for both the experimental group and control group
They must be kept the same or they could change your experiment in an unwanted way
Constants from experiment below? Plant type, amt. of water, soil type, pot size/type, sunlight, temperature, etc…

6. Scientific Method – Steps 5 & 6
Analysis– Look at trends, patterns, differences, or similarities in the collected data
Conclusion – Is the hypothesis accepted or rejected?
- Use data as evidence
If hypothesis is rejected, what should you do next?
….. proceed back to step 2 and try again