1. SCIENTIFIC METHOD By
Diana Bivens

3. Using the Scientific Method
Make an observation/Ask a question
Use prior knowledge to
to make inferences
inference: A conclusion
reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning
Form a hypothesis
Hypothesis: an explanation for a question
that can be tested (an educated guess)
based on inferences.

4. Using the Scientific Method
How do I determine if my hypothesis is correct?

5. Using the Scientific Method
3. Set up an experiment
Parts of an experiment -control group: a group in which all conditions of the experiment remain unchanged
-experimental group: the group exposed to factor being tested
-independent variable: the tested factor that might affect the outcome of the experiment
-dependent variable: the factor that the scientist measures
-constant: the portion of the experiment that remains unchanged

6. Let’s try it 
Hypothesis: "There will be a statistically significant difference in graduation rates of at-risk high-school seniors who participate in an intensive study program as opposed to at-risk high-school seniors who do not participate in the intensive study program." (LaFountain & Bartos, 2002, p. 57)
Control group:
Experimental group:
IV:
DV:

7. Using the Scientific Method
4. Collect/ Organize Data
-data may be organized in charts and/or graphs so trends can be easily recognized.
-amount of data must be sufficient

8. Types of Data Quantitative Qualitative Numerical data Descriptive data
Time
Temperature
Length
Mass
Descriptive data
Color
Shape
Smell
Behavior

9. Using the Scientific Method
5. Analyze Data
-Evaluate data for any inconsistencies.
-Explain any variables that were difficult to control for.
-Identify possible human error.

10. Using the Scientific Method
6. Form conclusion
?? Does the data support the hypothesis??
Yes No

11. Using the Scientific Method
7. Repeat Experiment
results must be repeatable before a theory can be stated

12. Hypothesis? Theory? Law?
Hypothesis: an educated guess based on observations
Theory: explanation of things based on knowledge gained from experimentation
Law: a well-established fact of nature