7 Steps to a Logical Process The Scientific Method 7 Steps to a Logical Process

1. Hypothesis versus Theory Established idea Factual Experiments Data Hypothesis: Educated guess Outcome If I do….then I expect…… correct or incorrect

Control versus Experimental groups one variable one condition different from control more variables = more controls Control: comparisons “Normal” condition Eliminates bias

Experimental Variables: Independent Variable: One condition that is changed from the control group Example: control = normal plant growth conditions independent variable= growth under no fertilizer Dependent Variable: the condition measured as a result of adding the independent variable Example: Measure growth in height as a result of no fertilizer

3 & 7.Data versus Opinion…... Data: Factual Measurable Replicates Personal Inferences versus observations? bias

4. Types of Experimental Bias as opinion: Expectations Influences results Psychology experiments in design: Unequal treatment Poor Controls Plant experiments

Replicates of each group: “Make an exact copy” Each group must have more than one setup for comparing results & verifying test conditions Minimum of 10 replicates

Scientific Data Must Be….. Measurable Quantifiable NOT opinion or judgment

7 Steps of the Scientific Method ? Different ? Precise ? Steps necessary? ? Most important

1. Identify the question What How Not “Why”

2. Background research…... Libraries Internet Experiments Researchers Interviews

3. State you hypothesis Educated guess Outcome Cause……leads to effect IF I do………then I expect………….

4. Design an experiment 2.Experimental Group 3.One variable 1.Control 2.Experimental Group 3.One variable 4.Replicates

5. Collect data Measurable Machine Tool Color chart Factual

6. Analyze data Agreement in replicates Good Controls Graph trends

7. Communicate results Publish Conference Web page Design errors

CONCLUSION: Which Step? What is needed? Measurable Data

Characteristics of Living Things: Structure & organization: cells, DNA, tissues & organs Reproduction Growth & development Respond to their environment Metabolism: sum of all chemical reactions Maintain homeostasis by using energy Adapt and evolve