Scientific Method Notes

Essential Question Why is the scientific method important?

Question Purpose of the investigation Clearly stated question that is testable and you are trying to answer. Practice: What would be a good scientific question to write if you wanted to figure out what temperature would grow the tallest plant?

Hypothesis/Prediction What do you think the answer to the question is and why. Often based on prior knowledge. Your prediction needs to have a reason to support it. It must be written as an If, then, because statement. If I test _____, then I think ________ will happen because _____. Practice: You are testing the temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius, 70 degrees Celsius, and 100 degrees Celsius for plant growth in terms of height. Write a practice hypothesis with your prediction.

Materials List of materials needed for lab. Must match your procedures. You should provide specific quantities when possible.

Identifying your variables Controlled Variables—many things kept the same in each trial Manipulated Variable—one that is changed—the one being tested Responding Variable—the data, what you are measuring. Always include SI units when applicable Practice: For the plant experiment, what would your variables be?

Procedure Design an experiment to test your hypothesis. Logical Steps— Instructions in an order that makes sense. Use the word “record”. Should be numbered and in enough detail to follow. Should have specific amounts Repeated Trials—at least two trials for more reliable results. Often your last logical step.

Can you write procedures? On a piece of paper (put your names and table numbers on it) write out the directions for making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. We will try some of your procedures and see how they work.

Results and Observations Presented in at least two ways, could include the following: Written Observations Sketches Diagrams Data Table with numbers Graphs Repeated trials should also be recorded here.

Look at the picture and discuss some observations with your table partner

Conclusion Conclusive Statement - Must answer the investigative question and explains whether the hypothesis was supported or not Use Evidence/data to Support your answer- Must include the high and low data or Range of conditions observed. Explanatory Language - Explains how the data supports the conclusive statement. Therefore...

Reflection How does this lab relate to what we have learned in class? Refer to a specific reading page, activity, or page in your notebook. Second, how does this lab relate to real life? Find at least one connection to real life.

Repeating the Work Other scientists must repeat the results of the the experiment to check the validity of the experiment