The Scientific Method (S.M.) is an

organized way to answer questions about the world

around us

*FYI*

Although there are different versions of

the S.M., all versions begin the

same step…

1. Identify a Problem/Observation

2. Form a Hypothesis

3. Design & Perform an Experiment

4. Collect and Analyze Results (Data)

5. Draw a Conclusion

6. Make a Prediction

Steps of the Scientific Method

1.1. Problem/ObservationProblem/Observation: Identify a problem or make an observation that can be

solved through experimentation

WHY???

Do you remember the Do you remember the next step?next step?

Steps of the Scientific Method

2. Form a HypothesisForm a Hypothesis: Predict a possible answer to the problem or

question.

WHAT IS A HYPOTHESIS? An educated guess based on observations

and what you already know.

Example of a HypothesisIf

I copy my work from other people,

then

I may make a good assignment grade but my test grade will be low

because

I did not learn the material for myself.

Steps of the Scientific Method

3. ExperimentExperiment: Design and conduct an experiment.

Things to think about:

- What materials will I need?

- What will my procedures be?

- Will my results be measurable?

Steps of the Scientific Method

• Expected results have to be quantifiable (some number)

• Control group- does not receive treatment so it remains the same and provides a standard

• Experimental group- receives the treatment that you are trying to test:

– The conditions that are changing in an experiment are called variables

– Independent variable- condition being tested – Dependent variable- the change that is measured

Collect and Analyze the Collect and Analyze the Results/DataResults/Data:

• Modify the procedure if needed

• Confirm the results by retesting (= reliable)

• Include tables, graphs, and pictures

Steps of the Scientific Method

5. Draw a ConclusionDraw a Conclusion: Include a statement that accepts or rejects the hypothesis.

- This statement should be able to stand alone:

• Bad example: Plant A died without water.

• Good example: In our experiment, we found that plant A can only survive for 10 days without water before dying so our hypothesis was correct.

Steps of the Scientific Method

- By drawing a conclusion, you are sharing your results with others:

- Be able to present your research and answer questions about it

- Make recommendations for further study and possible improvements to the procedure

Steps of the Scientific Method

6. Make a PredictionMake a Prediction: Create other experiments/studies that can further explain or support

your findings

Think you can name all Think you can name all six steps in order?six steps in order?