1. Observation/Research Formulate a Hypothesis Experiment
Scientific Method
Problem/Question
Observation/Research
Formulate a Hypothesis
Experiment
Collect and Analyze Results
Conclusion
Communicate the Results

2. 3 Kinds of Variables
Independent Variable – something that is changed by the scientist
What is tested
What is manipulated

3. Steps of the Scientific Method
1. Problem/Question: Develop a question or problem that can be solved through experimentation.

4. Steps of the Scientific Method
2. Observation/Research: Make observations and research your topic of interest.

5. Steps of the Scientific Method
3. Formulate a Hypothesis: Predict a possible answer to the problem or question.
Example: If soil temperatures rise, then plant growth will increase.

6. Steps of the Scientific Method
4. Experiment: Develop and follow a procedure.
Include a detailed materials list.
The outcome must be measurable (quantifiable).

7. Steps of the Scientific Method
5. Collect and Analyze Results: Modify the procedure if needed.
Confirm the results by retesting.
Include tables, graphs, and photographs.

8. Steps of the Scientific Method
6. Conclusion: Include a statement that accepts or rejects the hypothesis.
Make recommendations for further study and possible improvements to the procedure.

9. 3 Kinds of Variables
Dependent Variable – something that might be affected by the change in the independent variable
What is observed
What is measured
The data collected during the investigation

10. 3 Kinds of Variables
Controlled Variable – a variable that is not changed
Also called constants
Allow for a “fair test”

11. Parts of the Statement Independent Variable:
The condition be studied. It is controlled by the experimenter.
ex. Water
Dependent Variable:
The condition affected by the ind. variable. It can’t be controlled by the experimenter.
ex. Plant Growth
Control:
The condition that is represented in a normal situation.

12. Steps to Writing the “If” section of your Hypothesis
Start your sentence with the word “If”
Write down one of the variables
Connect statement with one of the following:
is related to
is affected by
causes
Write down the other variable

13. Writing the “Then” section of your Hypothesis
Write the word then (following the “if” section)
Make a comment on the relationship between those two variables.
Ex. If section:
If water is related to plant growth,
Ex. Then section:
then the more you water plants, the bigger they will grow.

14. Final “If / Then” Statement
If water is related to plant growth, then the more you water plants, the bigger they will grow.