scientific method notes

Experimental Design

Scientific Method:Process by which scientists, collectively,

and over time, construct an accurate representation of the world

Problem-solving method

Hypothesis:An educated prediction or guess based

on observations and research

Control:Portion of the experiment that remains

unchanged and is used for comparison

Variable:Portion of the experiment that is changed

in order to test hypothesis

Should only be testing one

Independent Variable:The variable or change you are

manipulating

Dependent Variable:The variable or change that happens as a

result of your change

Constants:All other conditions of your experiment

outside of the one independent variable should be exactly the same

Sample Size:The more samples or tests you have the

better, with a minimum of three to five

Data to Collect:Quantitative data (data that can be easily

counted or measured)

Presenting Data:All data should be presented in a chart

and/or graph with everything categorized or labeled

Line GraphShows trends over time

Bar GraphGood for comparison of data

Pie ChartsShow percentage of the whole

Bias:Avoid favoring one sample over another

and ignoring or dismissing data counter to your hypothesis