Scientific Method Definitions

Scientific Question Hypothesis A question about the natural world that can be answered by gathering evidence. Example: Does tanning harm the skin? A possible scientific explanation that can be tested, measured and falsified by an experiment. Example: If it is dark, then an owl can find a mouse by the sound the mouse makes. Hypothesis

Designing an Experiment Making a plan for testing a hypothesis. Careful, orderly test of a hypothesis Experiment

Variables Controlled Variables Any factor that can change or affect the results of an experiment. Keeping all the relevant conditions in an experiment the same except the manipulated variable. Controlled Variables

Operational Definitions A statement that describes how a particular variable is to be measured or how a term is to be defined. Information gained through observation and measurements. Data

Interpreting Data or Analysis Finding meaning in data and explaining patterns or trends. Making a statement that sums up what you have learned from an experiment and stating whether data supported the hypothesis Drawing Conclusions