The Scientific Method (S.M.) is an organized way to answer questions about the world around us

*FYI* Although there are different versions of the S.M., all versions begin the same step…

1.Identify a Problem/Observation 2.Form a Hypothesis 3.Design & Perform an Experiment 4.Collect and Analyze Results (Data) 5.Draw a Conclusion 6.Make a Prediction

Steps of the Scientific Method 1.Problem/Observation 1.Problem/Observation: Identify a problem or make an observation that can be solved through experimentation WHY???

Do you remember the next step?

Steps of the Scientific Method Form a Hypothesis 2. Form a Hypothesis: Predict a possible answer to the problem or question. WHAT IS A HYPOTHESIS? An educated guess based on observations and what you already know.

Example of a Hypothesis If I copy my work from other people, then I may make a good assignment grade but my test grade will be low because I did not learn the material for myself.

Steps of the Scientific Method Experiment 3. Experiment: Design and conduct an experiment. Things to think about: -What materials will I need? -What will my procedures be? - Will my results be measurable?

Steps of the Scientific Method Expected results have to be quantifiable (some number) Control group- does not receive treatment so it remains the same and provides a standard Experimental group- receives the treatment that you are trying to test: –The conditions that are changing in an experiment are called variables –Independent variable- condition being tested –Dependent variable- the change that is measured

Collect and Analyze the Results/Data Collect and Analyze the Results/Data: Modify the procedure if needed Confirm the results by retesting (= reliable) Include tables, graphs, and pictures

Steps of the Scientific Method Draw a Conclusion 5. Draw a Conclusion: Include a statement that accepts or rejects the hypothesis. - This statement should be able to stand alone: Bad example: Plant A died without water. Good example: In our experiment, we found that plant A can only survive for 10 days without water before dying so our hypothesis was correct.

Steps of the Scientific Method - By drawing a conclusion, you are sharing your results with others: - Be able to present your research and answer questions about it - Make recommendations for further study and possible improvements to the procedure

Steps of the Scientific Method Make a Prediction 6. Make a Prediction: Create other experiments/studies that can further explain or support your findings

Think you can name all six steps in order?