1. Scientific Method

2. Old School Scientific Method
Make an Observation
Ask a Question
Construct a hypothesis
Experiment
Record Data
Analyze Results
Report your findings

3. There is no scientific method….

4. Experimental Design Develop and follow a procedure
Included detailed procedure and materials list
Variables:
Independent variable – what the experimenter changes
Dependent variable – what is measured
Constant – things to keep the same
Control -

5. Some practice….
Different rose bushes are grown in a greenhouse for two months. The number of flowers on each bush is counted at the end of the experiment
IV:
DV:
Control:
Different types of rose bushes
Number of flowers
Rose bush grown outside

6. Some practice….
You water three sunflower plants with salt water. Each plant recieves a different concentration of salt solutions. A fourth plant recieves pure water. After a two week period, the height is measure
IV:
DV:
Control:
Different concentrations of salt water
Height of plant
4th plant receiving pure water

7. Some practice….
One tank of golf fish is fed the normal amount of food once a day, a second tank is fed twice a day and a third tank four times a day during a six week study. The fish’s weight is recorded daily
IV:
DV:
Control:
Different amounts of food fed
Weight of fish
Tank fed normal amount – once a day

8. Writing a lab report….

9. Discussion/Conclusion
Did the data support the hypothesis?
Specific data that led to rejection/support
Refer to visuals (graphs, data tables)
Use understanding of scientific concepts to explain why results support/reject
Any problems, issues, mistakes?

10. Results Visuals Visuals Visuals
In a sentence of two, what’s the main finding?
Include paragraphs about each visual. State overall relationships, include specific details

11. Communicating Results….
Scientific Journals
Scientific Studies (released articles)

12. Evaluating Articles Questions to ask… Was the study large enough?
Did it last long enough?
Conclusions fit scientific evidence?
Findings been checked by other experts?

13. Some actual scientific studies..
Parachute use to prevent death and major trauma related to gravitaional challenge
Optimizing the sensory characteristics and acceptance of canned cat food: use of a human taste panel
Maternal kisses are not effective in alleviating minor childhood injuries

14. Problems with bad science…
Global Warming controversy
Scientists faking data
Cherry picking (its -20° out global warming is fake!)
Vaccine controversy
Study about MMR linked to autism
Picked up by celebrities – gained traction
No science has been able to replicate original study linking vaccines and autism

15. 30 Scientific Studies show link between Vaccines and Autism

16. In the consumer world… Genetically Modified Foods (GMOS)
Organic vs Non Organic Foods
Tone Up Shoes