How can we find answers to our own questions?

Unit Questions Why is it important to find our own answers to questions? What are the steps of the scientific method? How can the scientific method be applied to answer questions?

Presented by Tracy Smith ED 503 The Scientific Method Presented by Tracy Smith ED 503

Overview Definition of the Scientific Method Steps of the Scientific Method Types of research Steps of experimental design

The Scientific Method A step-by-step process that allows one to find answers to his own questions or to solve his own problems.

Steps of the Scientific Method Observe Identify question/problem Research question/problem Develop hypothesis Design Experiment Test hypothesis Collect data Communicate results

Types of Research Definitional Historical Experiential

Question What factors affect the growth of a plant? Light Water Soil Size of pot

Hypothesis If a plant is exposed to light, then it will grow.

The Experiment Experimental Group – exposed to light Control Group – no light exposure Independent Variable – light exposure Dependent Variable – plant growth http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project_variables.shtml

Test Hypothesis Conduct experiment Collect data

Communicate Results Present results in graphic form Oral report explains experimental results

Scientific Method Summary It can be used to answer questions or solve problems. It is simple to use. It is essential in the development of scientific reasoning.

Sources http://www.mce.k12tn.net/science_fair/scientific_method.htm http://school.discoveryeducation.com/clipart/category/scie0001.html http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project_scientific_method.shtml