Scientific Method

Blueprint

For

Success

SCI.9-12.B-1.1 - [Indicator] - Generate hypotheses based on credible, accurate, and relevant sources of scientific information.

SCI.9-12.B-1.4 - [Indicator] - Design a scientific investigation with appropriate methods of control to test a hypothesis (including independent and dependent variables), and evaluate the designs of sample investigations.

*What is the scientific method?

It is the steps someone takes to identify a question, develop a hypothesis, design and carry out steps or procedures to test the hypothesis, and document observations and findings to share with someone else.

In other words, it’s a way to solve a problem.

*Define the Problem

Make sure you know what the problem is.

State the problem as a clear question.

Will the use of Exxon gasoline give my car better gas mileage?

SCI.9-12.B-1.1 - [Indicator] - Generate hypotheses based on credible, accurate, and relevant sources of scientific information.

SCI.9-12.B-1.4 - [Indicator] - Design a scientific investigation with appropriate methods of control to test a hypothesis (including independent and dependent variables), and evaluate the designs of sample investigations.

*Research the Problem

Find out all you can concerning your problem

Use the Library Magazines The internet Personal Interviews

*Form a Hypothesis in the form of an “If -Then” Statement

The first part of the statement represents the problem, while the second part represents the proof you are looking for.

Examples: If I spend my money on a new CD, then I will not

have enough to go to the movies. If I use Exxon Gasoline, then my car will get better

gas mileage.

SCI.9-12.B-1.1 - [Indicator] - Generate hypotheses based on credible, accurate, and relevant sources of scientific information.

SCI.9-12.B-1.4 - [Indicator] - Design a scientific investigation with appropriate methods of control to test a hypothesis (including independent and dependent variables), and evaluate the designs of sample investigations.

*Develop a Controlled Experiment

All experiments contain variables (things found in the experiment).

The Experimental variable is the thing being tested ONLY ONE VARIABLE AT A TIME IS TESTED

The Control variables are the other things having an effect on the experimental variable. These must be kept identical.

SCI.9-12.B-1.6 - [Indicator] - Evaluate the results of a controlled scientific investigation in terms of whether they refute or verify the

hypothesis

*Other Variables

The factor that is changed is known as the independent variable.

The factor that is measured or observed is called the dependent variable.

Let’s Look at an Example!

Gasoline’s Affect on Car Mileage.

What are Some Possible Variables?

Car type Gasoline type Driver Driving Conditions Amount of gasoline Tires Extra weight in car

SCI.9-12.B-1.6 - [Indicator] - Evaluate the results of a controlled scientific investigation in terms of whether they refute or verify the

hypothesis

If we are testing gasoline, what variables must be kept identical?

The cars must be of the same type. Each car must have the same amount of gasoline. The cars must be driven over the same course, at

the same speed, and under the same weather conditions.

The cars must contain the same type of tires. The only difference is the type of gasoline.

*Conduct the Experiment

Conduct the experiment several times.

This is important to rule out making mistakes by using too few trials.

The more trials the more specific the data.

*Analysis of Data

Examine the data and analyze it making a determination as to what it is saying.

Check to see if your data is complete or if more tests need to be conducted.

*Form a Conclusion

Apply your analyzed data to your “If- then” statement (hypothesis).

If it satisfies the statement, then your hypothesis is correct.

If not, then you need to reexamine your data and find out why.

Make sure the experiment can be reproduced producing the same results.

SCI.9-12.B-1.6 - [Indicator] - Evaluate the results of a controlled scientific investigation in terms of whether they refute or verify the

hypothesis

SCI.9-12.B-1.1 - [Indicator] - Generate hypotheses based on credible, accurate, and relevant sources of scientific information.

SCI.9-12.B-1.4 - [Indicator] - Design a scientific investigation with appropriate methods of control to test a hypothesis (including independent and dependent variables), and evaluate the designs of sample investigations.