The Scientific Method Galileo Galilee ( ) developed a method of observing, experimenting, and analyzing that is now referred to as the Scientific Method (SM): The various parts of the Scientific Method

There are 8 steps to Dr. Byrnes ’ SM: 1. State the problem In question form 2. Research the problem Gather information through measurement/research 3. Form a hypothesis An educated guess Or a possible explanation of the problem – Stated as if it were a fact – Does not necessarily need to be an “If … Then” statement

4. Write down the procedures The series of steps a scientist takes while performing an experiment 5. Perform the experiment Use a control and a variable – A control is used as a means of comparison – A variable is the 1 aspect being changed or manipulated 6. Observe and record all of your results / data There are 2 types of data: A. Quantitative: Involves a number (called a measurement) B. Qualitative: Involves physical observation / notation

7. Interpret your data 8. State your conclusion Note: Every teacher probably has a slightly different version of the SM

What 2 things can you do if your experimental results do not match your hypothesis? 1. Restate your hypothesis 2. Perform the experiment over again Once a hypothesis has been thoroughly tested and accepted, it may lead to the development of a theory A theory may become a scientific law – Must be proven correct every time – Must also be widely accepted by the scientific community

Sometimes people have ?’s that can not be answered using the methods of science – These include the following: 1. Religion 2. Philosophy