1. The Scientific Method

2. Question: What steps do scientists take to solve problems?
Answer: They use the Scientific Method.
Definition: an organized way to solve a scientific problem

3. Scientific Method 1) Stating the problem
Use observations to define a problem
2) Forming an hypothesis
Use prior knowledge and experience to make a prediction
A hypothesis is an educated guess

4. Test your hypothesis with a controlled experiment
3)  Setting up a controlled experiment
Test your hypothesis with a controlled experiment
In a controlled experiment, only one variable in the experiment is tested at a time – all other variables must be kept the same (or controlled)
control: factor that is not changed
variable: factor in an experiment that can change
A detailed procedure is formed before starting an experiment
Variables are factors in an experiment that can change.

5. A little more on variables…
Manipulated (independent) variable – the variable that is deliberately changed (point of comparison)
Responding (dependent) variable – changes in response to the independent variable (support or refute hypothesis)
***All other variables must be controlled, or kept constant.***

6. Keep accurate records of all data
4) Conduct the Experiment
Follow the procedure precisely
Control all variables that could influence your results.
5) Recording and analyzing results
Keep accurate records of all data
Data is only useful after it is analyzed

7. 6) Drawing a conclusion
Review hypothesis and draw a
conclusion – either the hypothesis was supported or refuted (wrong)
A hypothesis is never proven…only supported or refuted!!
If your hypothesis was wrong you must modify the experiment and try again.

8. Famous series of experiments using the Scientific Method:
Redi (1600’s) – Spontaneous Generation -an idea the life formed from the air.