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Published byCecil Ray Modified over 8 years ago
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1:2 The Scientific Method
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Step 1: State the Problem Based on observations (gathering information using your senses) Written in the form of a question: What is the effect of Independent Variable on Dependent Variable? Variables-characteristics in an experiment that change or could be changed Independent variable- variable you change on purpose; also called the manipulated variable Dependent variable- variable that responds to a change in the independent variable
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Step 2: Research Do research to find out: Facts about the independent variable Facts about dependent variable Relationship between independent variable and dependent variable (If you can not establish a relationship, then you do not have enough information to make an educated guess that will lead to an experiment!)
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Step 3: Form a Hypothesis This is an educated guess about how changing the independent variable will effect the dependent variable It is a possible explanation to the problem that is based on your research findings Often written as an If…, then… statement to make sure that all necessary information is included
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Step 4: Perform the Experiment Keep ALL factors the same except the variables being tested Constants-characteristics in an experiment that are kept unchanged in all trials Control group- part of the experiment without the variable being tested; standard for comparison in an experiment Experimental group- part of the experiment that contains the factor being tested Change the independent variable in a regular, measurable fashion. Measure changes in the dependent variable Carry out at least 3 trials for each change of the independent variable Trial- the number of times an experiment is repeated for each level or value of the independent variable. The more trials…the more reliable your results
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Step 5: Record and Analyze Data Quantitative data- can be described or measured in numbers Qualitative data- using your senses to record written descriptions Written description of all sensory data are recorded in a log or journal Numerical measurements are recorded in a data table and are also displayed visually in the appropriate graph or chart, depending on the type of data involved Data is analyzed by looking for patterns or relationships
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Step 6: Draw Conclusions Tells if the hypothesis was correct Identifies scientific error Explains why the results turned out that way…relate it to the research findings
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Step 7: Report your results
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Scientific Theories & Laws Theory- A unifying explanation for a broad range of hypotheses and observations that have been supported by testing (tells you why) Repeated testing that does not disprove a hypothesis Law-a summary of many experimental results and observations (tells you what) Considered a fact
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