How do scientists solve problems? Scientific Method How do scientists solve problems?

Observations First step in scientific method Made using 5 senses Two types: Qualitative Refers to quality; cannot be measured The chairs are hard The walls are white Quantitative Measurement There are 31 chairs in this class

Problem What are you trying to solve? Can be a statement or a question Example: Are there 31 chairs in other Biology classes?

Form a Hypothesis Prediction based on previous knowledge that can be tested Often in If…., then… format Need to be a testable solution to a problem Example: If I count all the chairs in other Biology classes, then they will have 31 stools

Create an Experiment All experiments should have a control and two variables Control – Item results are compared with or something that does not change Variables Independent – what is altered or manipulated Other classrooms Dependent – what is observed and measured Number of stools All experiments should measure one variable at a time and should have a control or a group that remains constant

Record Results All data is recorded in a data table All rows and columns must be labeled with headings and units All data tables should have a title describing the data and its source Remember you UNITS

Analyze Results Data is plotted in a graph All graphs need: Title Labels on X (independent) and Y axis (dependent) Key Pick the graph that best describes your data Types of graphs: Bar – counting objects Line – change over time Pie chart - percentages

Draw a conclusion Draw a conclusion be reviewing the research and your data This does not PROVE a hypothesis You can not say “I proved….” You can say “the data supports/did not support my hypothesis” It does support a hypothesis Many experiments over time can lead to a theory or law