The Scientific Method There's nothing wrong with coming up with a list of steps for solving a problem scientifically, as long as you realize that this is only a summary of one way some scientists may solve problems.

Step 1: Make observations Observation: noticing or paying close attention to your surroundings in order to gain information Step 2: Think of a Question Example: What effect does sunlight have on plants? Step 3: Do research

Step 4: Make a Hypothesis Hypothesis: a temporary, testable explanation of a natural phenomenon (ideally in an “If…and…then” statement). Step 5-7: Design and Conduct an Experiment. Collect Data. Variable: factor that can change or be changed in an experiment

Step 8: Analyze Data Looking for relationships in the data, trying to come to a conclusion Step 9: Make a Conclusion Paragraph that tells if your hypothesis was right or wrong and how you know. If your hypothesis was wrong, you may wish to revise your hypothesis. Step 10: Communicate your findings.

Types of Variables Independent Variable (manipulated variable): factor that you wish to test that is purposely changed in order to be tested Dependent Variable (responding variable): factor that you measure to gather results; may be affected by the change in the independent variable Controlled Variables: purposely kept the same throughout the experiment.

Types of Variables (continued) Independent Variable (manipulated variable): (x-axis on a graph) (left side of data table) Dependent Variable (responding variable): (y-axis on a graph) (right side of a data table) Controlled Variables: purposely kept the same throughout the experiment.