1. Scientific Method
Section 1.2 & 1.3

2. What does the Scientific Method Involve?
Scientific method allows for scientists to solve a problem through observations
Involves a combination of making observations, collecting relevant information, and using logical reasoning

3. Approaches to Solve a Problem
Hypothesis
Experiment
Results
Conclusions
An experiment must be capable of being repeated and producing substantially similar results.

4. Problem Statement Identify a question
Either done before or after making observations
Why do earthworms leave their burrows after it rains?
What would happen to a population of prey species if a predator was introduced to an area?

5. Hypothesis
A possible answer to the problem based on knowledge or research
Not a random guess!!
Give a hypothesis for the earthworms!
Give a hypothesis for the predator and prey!

6. Experiment Procedures that addresses the question being asked
Independent Variable – item being tested or changed (Controls the dependent var., x axis)
Dependent Variable – changes due to the procedures performed on the independent variable (what ever is being measured, y axis)
Control – comparison point or group

7. Results Data obtained as a result of the experiment
Presented in a table or a graph
Is data always numerical?
Results are considered valid when they are repeated

8. Conclusion
Using results to support or reject the hypothesis, thus answering the original question

9. Vocab Theory – tested repeatedly with same results
Law – an established, universally-known fact; no further evidence required
Qualitative Data – observations, research
Quantitative Data – Numbers, Charts & Tables

10. Practice Problem 1. Write down a problem from this information.
2. State an appropriate hypothesis for this investigation.
3. Identify the independent variable.
4. Identify the dependent variable.
5. What is the control in this investigation.