1. Scientific Method
Section 2

2. What are Scientific Methods
Scientific methods are a series of steps followed to solve a problem
Way scientists follow steps
Steps are the same; but the order may be different
May use all the steps
May use some of the steps
May repeat steps
Order depends on what works best to answer the question

3. No matter what the question is, scientists are always:
Curious about the natural world
Use scientific method to solve problem

4. Steps of the Scientific Method

5. Ask a Question Questions are formed from observations
Using the senses
Accurate observations include
Measurements
Length
Volume
Time
speed
Behavior patterns
Observations need to be accurately made and recorded

6. Form a hypothesis A hypothesis is a possible explanation to a question
Based on observations of the known world
Can be tested
Testable hypothesis means an experiment can be designed to prove it
Untested hypothesis means there is not an experiment to test it
It may not be wrong; just not supported or disproved

7. Predictions
A prediction is a statement of cause and effect that can be used to set up a hypothesis
If – then format
Can have more than one predictions

8. Test Hypothesis
Scientists design experiments to show one factor caused an outcome
Controlled experiment tests one factor at a time
Control – factors kept the same
Variable- one thing that is changed

9. Designing Experiment Collecting Data Requires planning
Every factor needs to be considered
Collecting Data
Include observations and record keeping
Scientists try to test many individuals
More individuals = more certain data
Differences in data is from change in variables
Repeat experiments to support conclusions

10. Analyze Data
After the experiment, scientists must organize their results
Into graphs
Or tables/charts
Easier to interpret and make comparisons

11. Draw Conclusions
At the end of the experiment, a conclusion must be made
Decide whether the results support the hypothesis
Answers may lead to other questions or experiments
Need more information
Asks a new question

12. Communicate Results Scientists are a global community
Communicate by writing a paper, making a presentation, or website
Must communicate results to others so they can
Repeat to see if they got the same results
Information used may explain or disprove previous science