1. The Scientific Method

2. Scientific Method
An organized and controlled way to ask and answer science questions

3. 1. Problem/Question Develop a question or problem to be answered
MUST be able to test the question with an experiment

4. 2. Observation/Research
You need to know something about the subject before you design an experiment

5. Do you remember the next step?

6. 3. Formulate a Hypothesis
An educated guess
A prediction of what you think will happen in the experiment

7. 4. Experiment Must write out the steps ahead of time (plan)
Must have materials list and instructions
Must follow steps exactly
Must be a measurable outcome

8. Collect & Analyze Data
Keep record of data
Compare and contrast data

9. Conclusion Determine if your data proves or disproves your hypothesis
Write a report to explain your hypothesis, experiment and data results

10. Communicate Results Be prepared to present and discuss your work
Be ready to answer questions about your work

17. Independent Variable
The condition that is intentionally changed by the investigator in an experiment
There can be only one independent variable in an experiment

18. Dependent Variable
The condition that will change as a result of the independent variable
The factor that you are measuring to collect data

21. Control Group
Exposed to same conditions as the experimental group, except for the independent variable
Used to compare the effects of the independent variable