The Scientific Method

5 Steps 1.Question (Problem) 2.Hypothesis 3.Experiment 4.Analysis 5.Conclusion

1 st : Question What are you trying to find out? Example: − If I put the hot chocolate in a paper cup, will it stay warmer for a longer time? − What type of surface absorbs more heat when left in the sun?

2 nd : Hypothesis An educated guess. I think this because…. not a random guess! taking what you already know and using that knowledge to help you guess, or do research first, then make an educated guess.

3 rd : Experiment (Procedures) Design and conduct the experiment List the materials & procedures Create very detailed directions Needs to be able to be duplicated by someone else, just by reading the procedure. Can only change one variable at a time.

What is a variable? A variable is something that changes There are two kinds of variables. 1. Independent Variable 2. Dependent Variable

Independent variable The part that is changed by the scientist on purpose − There can be only one independent variable. − As the scientist changes the independent variable, he or she observes what happens. Dependent variable What you measure!!! What happens as a result of your experiment. − Changes in the dependent variable depend on what was done to the independent variable.

What is a control? A control is something that stays the same. What are some of the controls in the hot chocolate example?

4 th : Analysis Carefully review all of the data Use charts and graphs to help you analyze the data and patterns. What is the relationship with the data?

5 th : Conclusion A paragraph starting with “In conclusion,…” 1. Answer the “question” with your results and tell whether or not your experiment results support or contradict your original hypothesis. 2. Include proof, data, measurements to back it up! 3. Any relationships, trends, or patterns in the data? 4. It might be necessary to include any possible reasons for strange results.

If Your Results Show that Your Hypothesis is False Never change or manipulate the data to make your experiment look better! Simply explain why things did not go as expected. Professional scientists commonly find that results do not support their hypothesis, and they use those unexpected results as the first step in constructing a new hypothesis. If you think you need additional experimentation, describe what you think should happen next.