HOW DO SCIENTISTS WORK?

Inquire - Scientists look at the world and ask questions. I ask myself questions that may be

tested through scientific research and investigation. I brainstorm with other scientists about a

scientific problem.

Research – Scientists research all known information pertaining to their question and/or

problem. I read all scientific information that may help to answer my question or solve my

problem.

Investigate – Scientists conduct investigations to answer questions or solve problems. I design

an experiment using available resources to investigate the question or problem.

Connect to Prior Knowledge – Scientists add new evidence from scientific investigation and

make connections to their existing knowledge. I reflect on my existing knowledge of science

and add new information based on evidence from my experiment.

Make Predictions – Scientists make a hypothesis about the outcome of the investigation. I

make an educated guess based on my existing knowledge and on the outcome of the

experiment.

Observe & Gather Information – Scientists observe and record observations with an attention

to detail. I watch and record what I see, smell, touch, hear, and sometimes taste.

Classify - Scientists group together things that are alike in some way to make better sense of

their world. I make sense of my observations and findings by organizing it into groups.

Make Inferences – Scientists interpret their observations and add to or revise prior

knowledge. I organize and analyze my data, make logical conclusions based on the data, and

determine if I will add it to my existing knowledge.

Model – Scientists use models to explain that which can or cannot be observed directly. I

make physical and/or mental models to understand and explain what I observed.

Persevere – Scientists look at failure as a natural part of the scientific process. I review my

question and reflect on my experiment to determine if it was a success or failure. I try again

knowing that failure, although it has not provided what I was looking for, has added to my

scientific knowledge.

Communicate – Scientists share ideas and information with the scientific community. I

communicate with other scientists to share my results and get their help in testing my

thinking, understanding, and results.

Writing

Reading

Speaking

Listening

Making models