1. Scientific Method Notes

2. Scientific Method Problem/Observation Research Information Hypothesis
Experiment
Analyze Data
Report Results (Conclusion)

3. Step 1: Problem Problem – Observes a problem
Step 2 – research information; included in step 1

4. Step 3: Form a Hypothesis
Hypothesis- a testable explanation of an observation.
A hypothesis is NOT just an educated guess about what you think will happen. It must be able to be tested!
We write the hypothesis in an If-Then statement
ex: If the amount of fertilizer is increased, then the height of the plant will increase.

5. Step 4 Experiment
A variable is anything that changes in a scientific experiment. There are two types:
Independent(manipulated)-what you chose to change
Dependent-The result
The control is what you use to compare the results to in the end of the experiment.
Constant-a factor that does not change in the experiment

6. Steps 5-6: Analyze Data Report Results (Conclusion)
Analyze Data- Organize the data to find patterns or meaning.
Report Results (Conclusion) – report what you found. NOT what you thought you would find. It is okay to disprove your hypothesis!!

7. It is a process not a law!!!!

8. Form a Hypothesis The Independent Variable goes after the “If” I.V.
If the amount of fertilizer is increased,
then the height of the plant will increase.

9. Form a Hypothesis The Dependent Variable goes after the “Then”
If the amount of fertilizer is increased,
then the height of the plant will increase.
D.V.

10. Now You Try:
If you spend more time studying, then your grade will improve.
Independent Variable =
Dependent Variable =

11. Graphing: DRY MIX
Dependent Variable
Independent Variable

12. Parts of a graph
Y Axis
X Axis

13. Y Axis (Dependent Variable) X Axis (Independent Variable)
Parts of a graph
Y Axis (Dependent Variable)
X Axis (Independent Variable)

14. Any Questions????