THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD

THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD: is a process used to find answers to questions about the world around us is an organized series of steps used when conducting an experiment.

Step 1: Ask a question or State the Problem * Must be Testable to conduct an experiment Examples: What happens if… What is the relationship between____&_____

Step 2: form Hypothesis Always an “If… Then...” statement, sometimes “because” A hypothesis is a Prediction of what you think is going to happen based on your background knowledge of the question or problem Also known as an “Educated Guess”

Step 3: Experiment This is the Investigation Design or conduct an investigation to help solve your problem or answer your question This does not always mean that your problem or question will be solved, but it will help you get closer to a solution

Step 4: Collect Data This is all the information gathered from conducting the experiment Document all Observations Record Data in tables or graphs

Step 5: Analyze Data Closely look at, or Analyze, the data collected Examine graphs or data tables for Relationships Find Correlations… this means to look for Patterns Your Data will ALWAYS be your EVIDENCE

Step 6: State Conclusion Develop a well written Explanation using Evidence that either supports or does not support your hypothesis Go back and read the question and hypothesis Retest using your new conclusion Communicate results to others