1. The Scientific Method Notes
A notes page is being handed out to you by our TA
As we discuss the notes, please fill in the blanks
Once completed, paste your notes into the next blank page of your science notebook

2. Step 1 – Purpose/Problem
Stated in the form of a question.
What information are we wanting to know?
Make observations – use your senses to gather information
Make inferences – an interpretation based on observations and prior knowledge

3. Step 2 – Hypothesis
Use your observations to develop a possible answer to the Purpose/Problem question (an educated guess)
Must be testable
Repeated tests must provide evidence that supports the hypothesis

4. Step 3 – Experiment
A careful examination or search in order to discover facts or gain information
An experiment has a step-by-step set of instructions that explains how to conduct your test.
A material’s list is also available

5. Step 3 – Experiment (cont)
Variables – all the factors that could affect the outcome of the experiment
Collect data – facts, figures, descriptions, and all other evidence

6. Step 4 – Analyze Your Results
Examine in detail
Organize the data you collected into a table, chart, or graph
Look for patterns or trends

7. Step 5 – Conclusion A final judgment or decision
Was your hypothesis correct or incorrect?
Use the data you collect to support your conclusion
If your hypothesis is incorrect, it’s back to the drawing board!
Communicate your conclusion by sharing ideas and experimental findings to learn from one another