Designing Experiments TCAP COACH LESSON 1 Designing Experiments

Scientific Methods A scientific method is a series of steps that a scientists follows in order to solve a problem or answer a question. The steps of a scientific method may vary. The choice of steps in part depends on the question itself, and what it takes to find the answer. Often, a scientific investigation is sparked by an observation.

Hypothesis A hypothesis is a possible testable answer or explanation.

Experiment An experiment is a procedure designed to test a hypothesis. To test your hypothesis you should control other variables.

Data Data are information in the form of measurements or observations. To analyze the data it means to figure out what it means.

Conclusion A conclusion is a statement that sums up the experimental results and states whether the experiment supports the hypothesis. If the results do not support your hypothesis, then propose a new one.

Experimental Design A written step by step plan called a procedure. (says what you will do and when)

Variable Any factor that can affect the results of an experiment. They are either independent or dependent. Independent- factor that you change Dependent- dependent of the independent varible.

Control Group A well designed experiment has a control group and an experimental group. A control group is a group used as the standard of comparison in an experiment. An experimental group is the group that is exposed to changes in the independent variable.

Control Group contd. Including a control group and an experimental group helps to ensure that only one variable is being tested at a time. Testing only one variable makes it more likely that the results of the experiment are caused by that variable.

Trials Scientists usually repeat an experiment many times, following the exact same procedure each time. Each repetition of an experiment is called a trial. Repeating allows checks for accuracy.

TCAP COACH PAGES 16-17 Lesson Review