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