The scientific method is a process for learning about the natural world through observation and experimentation. It involves stating a problem, conducting research to form a hypothesis, designing and carrying out an experiment to test the hypothesis, making observations during the experiment, and drawing conclusions based on the results. Some key steps include developing a hypothesis, designing an experiment with independent, dependent, and controlled variables, repeating experiments to verify results, and using a control group for comparison. The conclusion should relate the experimental results back to the original hypothesis and identify any flaws or areas for further investigation.
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1. The Scientific Method Science is a methodical approach to learning about the world around us .
2. Steps of the scientific method S TATE THE PROBLEM C ONDUCT RESEARCH H YPOTHESIS E XPERIMENT M AKE OBSERVATIONS & RECORD E XPRESS CONCLUSIONS The Scientific method is a SCHEME for doing science
3. State the Problem The P roblem is a scientific question to be solved. It is normally found by: Observing- using your senses and prior knowledge Researcing- reviewing previous studies. Example: Why are fish dying in the lake? Stipulations: Should be limited in its scope.. Were only researching the affects of salt . Can be solved experimentally Observe the affects as salt is added to water that is at boiling temperatures under controlled conditions.
4. Collect Information Collecting information is done by researching your own experiences, knowledgeable sources, and data from exploratory experiments to help you understand the topic . Do use many references from printed sources books, journals, magazines, and newspapersas well as electronic sources computer software and online services . Do gather information from professionalsinstructors, librarians, and scientists, such as physicians and veterinarians .
5. Hypothesize A hypothesis is an idea about the solution to a problem, based on knowledge and research an educated guess . If salt is added then it will cause the food to cook faster. Your experiment should be able to test the hypothesis . Do use the information you collected in determining your hypothesis . Do write down your hypothesis before beginning the project experimentation. (Generally write the hypothesis in an if then statement). If salt is added to boiling water then it will cause the food to cook faster Don't change your hypothesis even if experimentation does not support it - thats science! If time permits, repeat or redesign the experiment to confirm your results.
6. Experiment TESTING the Hypothesis Know your variables Independent (manipulated) variable: is the variable you or the scientist purposely manipulate ( change ). Ex . Adding salt Dependent (responding) variable: is the variable that changes in response to the independent variable Exp: water temp . Controlled (constants) variables: are variables that are not changed . Ex . Amount of water used, applying same amount of heat Control Group: A group that is tested in which the independent variable is not applied. It is used as the standard by which the test results can be compared (Exp: Boiling the water without the salt added)
7. Experiment Dos of Experimentation: Do have only one independent variable during an experiment. All others must be controlled variables Do repeat the experiment to verify your results, if possible. Do have a control group . .
8. Make observations of the experiment Collect data Organize data- charts; graphs; tables; etc Analyze the data
9. Evaluate and Conclude In this step you create a s ummary of the results and a statement of how the results relate to the hypothesis .
10. Conclusion When writing a conclusion make sure to include the following: Statements on how the results of the experiment related to your hypothesis (whether it was supported or refuted) Explanations as to why the experimental results were achieved Other hypotheses that can be made based on the experimental results Any experimental flaws in your experiment
11. Theory vs. Law Theory - an explanation of things or events based on many observations and investigations Law - Statement about what happens in nature that seems to be true at all times. Exp: Law of Gravity Unlike theorieslaws do NOT explain why.