1. Mrs. Cano-Michael– 9th Grade
Scientific Method 101
Mrs. Cano-Michael– 9th Grade

2. 1. Observation Uses the 5 senses to identify a PROBLEM
– sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste
It is what you notice and leads to QUESTIONS
– what? when? where? why? and how?

3. 2. Hypothesis A prediction or possible answer to the question asked.
Also known as an INFERENCE because it takes the observation to the next level of thinking 
Is written in an “If…, then…” format

4. 3. Experiment Tests the hypothesis
Controlled Experiment  choosing ONE variable to manipulate and observing its effect on a SECOND variable (while everything else remains the same)
Controlled Variables  any and all variables that remain the SAME (CONSTANT) during the experiment

5. 3. Experiment (continued)
Independent Variable  the ONE variable (thing) you deliberately change; found on the x-axis of a graph
Dependent Variable  the RESPONDING (2nd) variable - the result; found on the y- axis of a graph

6. 3. Experiment (continued)

7. 4. Collect Data
Data is recorded in a DATA TABLE immediately as it is collected in the lab
X = Independent
Y = Dependent

8. 5. Analyze Data
It is necessary to determine the relationship between the two variables in the experiment
EXAMPLE Increasing, Decreasing,
Direct, Indirect
Data is interpreted in a GRAPH

9. 6. Conclusion Discuss the Data Discuss the Experiment Design
Describe the results
Address the hypothesis
Discuss the Experiment Design
Address all the variables involved
“The results (dis)prove the hypothesis because…”
Discuss the Results
Name the concept that was being tested
Give the reasons for the result

10. 7. Right or Wrong??? Right  Wrong  Theory Law Change hypothesis
Start over

11. SM Flow Chart

12. I love THINKING!!!