Scientific Method The way scientists investigate the natural world and propose explanations based on...

Scientific Method

The way scientists investigate the natural world and propose explanations based on the evidence they gathered.

State the Problem Usually begins by asking a question

about an observation. The reason for doing the investigation.

Ex- Do crickets chirp more when the temperature is higher?

Gather Information Make observations. Research your problem.

Ex- It seems like crickets chirp more in the summer when it is hotter.

Form a Hypothesis An educated guess that provides a

possible explanation to the problem. Must be testable!

Ex- If I increase the temperature, the crickets will chirp more.

Perform an Experiment Design a controlled experiment to test

your hypothesis with only one manipulated variable.

Ex- I will observe and record the chirping behavior of crickets at different temperatures.

Variables (factors that can change)

Manipulated Variable: a variable that is purposely changed

Responding Variable: also called the dependent variable, this is the factor that changes in response to the manipulated variable

Controlled Experiment: an experiment where all factors but one are the same

Ex- temperature

Ex- chirping

Ex- everything is the same except temperature

Collect and Analyze Data Observe and make measurements Create graphs, charts, or data tables

Cricket 15 deg. C 20 deg. C 25 deg. C

1 91 135 180

2 80 124 169

3 89 130 176

4 78 125 158

5 77 121 157

Average 83 127 168

Ex- Data Table for Number of Chirps per Minute

Develop a Conclusion Use your data to prove or disprove your

hypothesis

Ex- Cricket chirping does increase with temperature!

Repeat the Work

To make sure you did the experiment correctly.

To test another variable To test another hypothesis