Scientific Method

Where did we leave off?  What makes science “science”  All fields of science use it  Sometimes called Scientific Inquiry  Logical way to find answers to natural phenomena  Starts with observations

An Overview of the Scientific Method “Steps”BUT Remember it is a process

Steps 1. Formulate a Question through observation 2. Research 3. Formulate a Hypothesis 4. Design and Conduct a Controlled Experiment 5. Accurately Record results 6. Formulate a Conclusion

Forming a Hypothesis  Based on inferences  Your guess as to what the answer is  In Science Fairs it is usually written as an “If….then…” statement.  Example: If pill bugs have a choice between a light environment or a dark environment, then they will choose a light environment.

Controlled Experiments  A controlled experiment tests one variable at a time.  Variables are the things that can be changed  Light, Temperature, Moisture, Food  Large sample size (10 or more!)

Recording and Analyzing Results  Written records: data tables, drawings, databases, spreadsheets  Graphs  Truthfulness (Ethics)  Why do we need “Ethics”?

Formulating a Conclusion  Based on the data from the experiments scientist draw conclusions.  If an experiment did not show what they predicted, was it wrong or did it fail?  Always evaluate the process

Paper Airplanes  Question: What design will cause the plane to fly the furthest  Research: What do you already know about planes and paper airplanes?  Formulate a Hypothesis (design)  Research: Test the plane  Retest  Conclusion