Scientific Inquiry Created by: Mrs. Gismonde
In the last PowerPoint we learned how to gather, collect and analyze our data. Today you will learn how to bring your experiment to a close. After you gather your data you need to write a conclusion.
A conclusion is a written summary of the results from your experiment. You will use the data table(s) and graph(s) you created in your experiment to help write a conclusion.
Key elements of a conclusion: 1.It summarizes your experiments results. State the relationship between the test variable and the outcome variable. 2.It restates your hypothesis. 3.It states if your hypothesis was supported or not supported. 4.It summarizes and evaluates your experimental procedures. Were they effective? Why or Why not? 5.It provides suggestions for future investigations.
Conclusion 1. According to my experiment, the Energizer battery maintained its voltage (outcome variable) for approximately 3% longer period of time (test variable) than the Duracell battery in a flashlight. 2. My hypothesis stated that the Energizer battery would last longer in the flashlight then the Duracell battery. 3. Therefore, my results supported my hypothesis. 4. I think the tests I performed went smoothly. I experienced no problem. However I noticed the batteries seemed to regain some of their voltage if they were not being used. Therefore, I had to measure the batteries voltage quickly. 5. An interesting future study might involve testing the batteries at different temperatures to simulate actual usage in very cold or very hot conditions.
If your results did not support your hypothesis, don't change or manipulate your findings to fit your original hypothesis. Simply explain why things did not go as expected.
Scientists often find that results do not support their hypothesis. They use their unexpected results as the first step in constructing a new hypothesis. Inventions discovered by mistake: ◦ Penicillin (antibiotic) ◦ Slinky ◦ Potato Chips ◦ Microwave Oven Click here learn about 15 life changing inventions discovered by mistake.here
Scientific research is an ongoing process. By discovering that your hypothesis is not supported, you have already made huge advances in your learning process. This will lead you to ask more questions and guide you towards to new experiments.
When writing a conclusion it is always helpful to follow a checklist. Remember if you answer “no” to any of the questions you should go back and revise your conclusion.
Did you summarize your results and use it to support the findings? If appropriate, did you state the relationship between the test variable and outcome variable? Does your conclusions state that you have proved or disproved your hypothesis? Did you summarize and evaluate your experimental procedures while making comments about its success and effectiveness? Did you suggest changes in the experimental procedure and the possibilities for further study?
Scientific Inquiry
The last step of the scientific inquiry process is to communicate your findings with others. Scientists communicate their findings by: ◦ Talking with fellow scientists ◦ Publishing science journals or articles ◦ Speaking at conferences ◦ Exchanging information on the internet
Scientists communicate results of investigation to inform other scientists about their research and their conclusions. Scientist might apply each other conclusions to their own work to help support their hypothesis.
Let’s put your knowledge to the test. Try experimenting at home. Remember all good experiments start by simply posing a question. Need help? ◦ Visit the sites below: Science Buddies Projects Science Buddies Projects Science Bob Science Fair Projects Science Bob Science Fair Projects Complete your project by using the following steps of the scientific method…
1.Pose a Question 2.Research 3.Form a Hypothesis 4.Design an Experiment 5.Collect and Analyze Data 6.Draw Conclusions 7.Communicate your results And don’t forget to have fun!!!
Conclusions. (n.d.). Retrieved June 2011, from Science Buddies: