Scientific Method -A Review-
Jan 19, 2016
Scientific Method-A Review-
What is the Scientific Method?
The Scientific Method involves a series of steps that are used to investigate a
natural occurrence.
6 Steps of the Scientific Method
• Problem/Question• Formulate a Hypothesis• Experiment• Collect and Analyze Results• Conclusion• Communicate the Results
Steps of the Scientific Method
1. Problem/Question: Develop a question or problem that can be solved through
experimentation.
2. Formulate a Hypothesis: Predict a possible answer to the problem or question. (If/ Then/ Because)
Steps of the Scientific Method
3. Experiment: Develop and follow a procedure. Include a list of materials.The outcome must be measurable (quantifiable).
4. Collect and Analyze Results: Modify the procedure if needed. Confirm the results by retesting. Include tables, graphs, and photographs.
Steps of the Scientific Method
5. Conclusion: Restate hypothesis, were you right or wrong (results), validate w/ results, explain why
6. Communicate the Results: Be prepared to present the project to an audience. Expect questions from the audience.
Variables
• Independent (manipulated): What you will be changing.
• Dependent (responding): What will respond to change; one you measure.
• Constants (control): What must remain the same.
Control Group
The control group is exposed to the same conditions as the experimental group, except for the variable being tested.
All experiments should have a control group.
Types of Data
• Quantitative: measures are numerical (sales, participants, income etc.)
• Qualitative: measures are less tangible, such as users’ expressions of appreciation of your work, or critical acclaim of your artistic activity.
Terms You Should Know
• Scientific Law: A scientific law is based on experimental evidence It is general something which seems to always be true.
• Hypothesis: A hypothesis is a uncertain explanation of an observation or pattern which has been observed in nature.
• Scientific Theory: Valid explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on knowledge that has been repeatedly confirmed through observation and experimentation
• System: a group of related parts that move or work together