1. Process of exploring the our world around us!
Scientific Method
Process of exploring the our world around us!

2. Title Names the experiment Can be in the form of a question
Usually includes the Independent Variable

3. Purpose
Gives the reason for the experiment

4. Research
Information you gather about your topic

5. Hypothesis A prediction that can be tested
Written in an “If … then …” statement
If the (Independent variable) is (describe change), then the (dependent variable) will (prediction).

6. Variable
Anything in an experiment that could affect the results

7. Independent Variable
Variable that is manipulated or changed by you, the scientist
On a graph, it is on the x-axis (along the bottom)
It is “The Cause” for the change

8. Dependent Variable
Variable that responds to the change by you, the scientist
On a graph, it is on the y-axis (along the vertical side)
What is measured

9. Constant Variables in the experiment that remain the same
Always more than one

10. Control Trials that are used as a standard for comparing results
Usually the “norm”

11. Materials Lists what you need in order to do the experiment
Includes any and all safety

12. Steps
Instructions that tell you what to do

13. Repeated Trials
Number of experimental repetitions tested at each level of the independent variable
Placed into a data table

14. Data Table
Where you record the information collected during the experiment

15. Qualitative Observation
Observations that are made by descriptions using color, odor, and sound

16. Quantitative Observation
Observations that are made with numbers and/or measurements

17. Inferences
Statements that attempt to explain or make sense of observations

18. Conclusion
Where you state whether your hypothesis was proven or disproven
You will use your results that were collected to support your findings

19. Scientific Theory
A hypothesis that has been proven many times over and ended with the same result

20. Scientific Law
A theory that is never proven wrong