1. Scientific Method
Section 1-2

2. Designing an Experiment
Flowchart
Designing an Experiment
Scientific Method
Section 1-2
State the Problem
Analyze Results
Form a Hypothesis
Draw a Conclusion
Set Up a Controlled Experiment
Publish Results
Record Results
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3. Controlled Experiments
When possible a hypothesis should be tested by an experiment with only one variable changed at a time.
Variables: factor in an experiment that can change
Controlled variables: kept the same on purpose
This means you’ll probably have several variables that are controlled or that stay the same in an experiment.

4. Manipulated and Responding Variables
Manipulated Variable (Independent) The one variable in a controlled experiment that is changed.
Responding Variable (Dependent) The variable observed because it should be changing in someway. (maggots)

5. Uncovered jars Covered jars Maggots appear No maggots appear
OBSERVATIONS: Flies land on meat that is left uncovered. Later, maggots appear on the meat.
HYPOTHESIS: Flies produce maggots.
PROCEDURE
Uncovered jars
Covered jars
Controlled Variables:
jars, type of meat,
location, temperature,
time
Several
days pass
Manipulated Variables:
gauze covering that
keeps flies away from
meat
Responding Variable:
whether maggots
appear
Maggots appear
No maggots appear
CONCLUSION: Maggots form only when flies come in contact with meat. Spontaneous generation of maggots did not occur.
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6. Field Studies When experiments are not possible.
Devise hypothesis that can be tested in other ways
Usually by observation
Scientific techniques (More on this one later!)