merrill scientific method

The Scientific Method

J.J. Merrill

Ask a Question

- Using observations and background knowledge, ask a meaningful question about the world around you!

- As simple as, “What kind of shampoo is the best bargain?”

- As complicated as your imagination can create

Do Background Research

Research your topic by finding information regarding the topic from any reliable sources available:

Internet

Professional Journals

Textbooks

Construct a Hypothesis

If/Then statements!

“If I race two rubber band cars then the one whose rubber band has more spins (stored energy) will go farther.”

Test your Hypothesis

DO YOUR EXPERIMENT!

Test your variables by following a procedure to decide if your hypothesis was correct.

Analyze Data/Draw Conclusions

What did you observe?

Was it what you thought it was going to be?

What went unexpectedly?

Why do you think it went the way it did?

Do you need to adjust your hypothesis?

Communicate your Results

Share what you learned with friends, family, classmates.

Results can be communicated through presentations, lab reports, or just sitting around having a conversation.

Bibliographies

Amal, I. (2010, November 01). Math game. Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/ikhlasulamal/5152734876

Blanchard, J. (2006, March 02). Affiche "think different" (einstein). Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/simssototo/141272015

D'World, V. (2006, May 08). Doing research. Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/view/142745616

Manfredi, A. (2010, March 01). Science fair 2010 - 19. Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/43447766@N04/4435379955

Microscopes. (2011, April 01). Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/myfwc/5733710965

Questions?. (2011, November 25). Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/70731452@N04/6403101327