1. Scientific Method

2. Steps 1. State the Problem 2. Gather Information 3. Hypothesis 4. Test the Hypothesis (Procedure) 5. Analysis of Data 6. Make Conclusions

3. Problem Many times this comes about just by asking questions. Scientists observe something that is reoccurring and ask questions about it. EXAMPLE: During the first five days of school, Susan was late to my class all five days……

4. Gather Information Ask questions concerning the problem Ask questions concerning the problem Find out as much pertaining information as possible. Find out as much pertaining information as possible. Use your senses…….. Use your senses……..

5. Example I asked Susan, “What class are you coming from?” She replied “Cafeteria.” I asked Susan, “What class are you coming from?” She replied “Cafeteria.” I asked Susan, “Why are you always late?” She replied, “This is my third time in the cafeteria. I wait to eat. When I am done eating, the bell rings and I have to throw everything away. Then, by the time I get up the main stairwell, it’s packed and I end up late.” I asked Susan, “Why are you always late?” She replied, “This is my third time in the cafeteria. I wait to eat. When I am done eating, the bell rings and I have to throw everything away. Then, by the time I get up the main stairwell, it’s packed and I end up late.”

6. Form a Hypothesis It is a possible explanation for a problem using what you know and what you observed. It is a possible explanation for a problem using what you know and what you observed. The four things you need in a hypothesis are: The four things you need in a hypothesis are: –Starts with “If” –Includes explanation of the problem –Includes a “then” part –Only changes one variable

7. Example If Susan throws away her garbage before the bell rings, then she will be on time for class.

8. Test the Hypothesis Some can be tested by making observations. Some can be tested by making observations. Others can be tested by building models Others can be tested by building models An experiment tests the effect of one thing on another using controlled conditions. An experiment tests the effect of one thing on another using controlled conditions.

9. Example Ask her to throw away her garbage before the bell rings and observe her. Ask her to throw away her garbage before the bell rings and observe her.

10. Analysis of Data Look over the information gathered Look over the information gathered Organize the information Organize the information Analyze information….ask yourself if it makes sense. Analyze information….ask yourself if it makes sense.

11. Example Did she make it on time? Did she make it on time? If she did, did she follow the procedure? If she did, did she follow the procedure?

12. Conclusion Based on your analysis of data, you decide whether or not your hypothesis is supported. Based on your analysis of data, you decide whether or not your hypothesis is supported. If your experiment does support your hypothesis, repeat the experiment several times. If your experiment does support your hypothesis, repeat the experiment several times. If your experiment does not support your hypothesis, change your hypothesis. If your experiment does not support your hypothesis, change your hypothesis.

13. Example If the hypothesis about Susan worked, have her repeat it and she shouldn’t be late to class anymore. If the hypothesis about Susan was not supported, create a new hypothesis and test that. For example, avoid the main stairwell.