1. The Scientific Method

2. Video – What is Science?

3. Scientific Method
All great discoveries are the result of someone asking WHY?
The scientific method is a way to ask and answer scientific questions by making observations and conducting experiments.
We will explore the scientific method step by step and discuss what actions need to be taken during each step.

4. The steps! 1. Be curious 2. Identify the problem
3. Complete a hypothesis
4. Prepare the materials
5. Complete the experiment
6. Record your observations
7. Interpret the observations
8. Compare the results with the original hypothesis
9. Make conclusions
10. Plan new experiments to further understand the problem

5. Steps for the Scientific Method

6. 1. Ask a Question
The research question is the most important part of scientific inquiry. Every part of your experiment is done to answer this question.
When choosing your question you must make sure it is something that can be measured (quantitative)

7. 2. Conduct Background Research
Use a variety of resources to research your topic. There may already be an answer out there for your question!
Research will also help you learn about techniques and equipment that can help you carry out your experiment.

8. 3. Formulate a Hypothesis
A hypothesis is an educated guess about the outcome of your experiment.
It will be based on your previous knowledge and the information you obtained during your research.
Your hypothesis should be stated in a way that can be easily measured and your research question can be answered.

9. 4. Conduct an Experiment Design an experiment to test your hypothesis.
Should be designed in order to collect relevant and fair data that can be used to prove (or disprove) your hypothesis.
It is important that you only change one variable at a time while keeping all others constant.
It is also a good idea to perform your test more than once.

10. 5. Data Analysis & Conclusion
Examine the collected data
Create data tables, charts and graphs
Conclusion
A summary of the results of the experiment
This is where you answer your initial question and state if your hypothesis was correct.
Also state any errors & improvements

11. 6. Report Your Findings
Create a formal write up of your experiment, the results and your conclusions
Written in a specific manner to easily communicate your discoveries to others
We will discuss how you will present your information in a lab report at a later time.

12. Expect the Unexpected...
At any point during the scientific method new information may cause you to rethink your hypothesis or the design of your experiment.
This can result in the repetition of one or many steps in the scientific method.

13. Smarties Lab!!
Preparation Questions – Ecology