Session 5: Steps of the scientific method, surveys and planning steps Bio Support Session 5: Steps of the scientific method, surveys and planning steps

Explanation of terms Scientific method At the core of biology and other sciences lies a problem-solving approach called the scientific method. Khan Academy with excellent examples The scientific method is a process for experimentation that is used to explore observations and answer questions. Science Buddies Surveys In research of human subjects, a survey is a list of questions aimed at extracting specific data from a particular group of people about a specific topic in Life Science usually in Genetics. Wikipedia and OP Planning steps Steps that need to be listed and done before an investigation or survey can be carried out to ensure success in the survey/investigation. They are not the same as a method which is part of the survey or investigation.

Steps of the scientific method 1

Scientific method 2

Surveys

Planning steps Planning steps are NOT the same as the method (conducting) of a survey or investigation because planning steps are what you are going to do BEFORE you start the survey or investigation to ensure that the survey or investigation will proceed successfully. Below shows you how to tell the difference between the two: (2015 diagnostic report)

Try this out Grade 10 – a group of life scientists wanted to find out if lamb liver , beef liver and chicken liver had the same amount of catalase per gram. List five planning steps they should carry out before starting their investigation

Try this out Grade 12 – a group of matric boys at a well known school wanted to find out if gender affected the inheritance of autosomal characteristics such as blood groups. List five planning steps they should carry out before starting their survey.