Understanding the Understanding the Scientific MethodScientific Method

Chapter 1Biology

Learning TargetsLearning Targets

• I will describe the parts of the scientific method

• I will describe how to collect, organize, and analyze data

• I will explain how results are used to draw conclusions

Scientific MethodScientific Method

• The Scientific Method is a series of steps that scientists use to investigate a natural occurrence– Scientific inquiry begins with an

observation• Observations are direct methods of

gather information in an orderly way (ex. Draw a picture, create a chart, take measurements, etc.)

Scientific MethodScientific Method

• After making an observation, scientists combine their observation with what they already know – this makes an inference.– Inferences are logical conclusions

drawn from processing your observation with the information you have learned through reliable sources

Scientific MethodScientific Method

• The exact scientific method is not always the same but each time they conduct an experiment, scientist both observe and infer through the entire process.

Scientific MethodScientific Method

• 7 Steps of the Scientific Method:

1. State the Problem2. Form a Hypothesis3. Experiment4. Gather Data5. Analyze Data6. Form a Conclusion7. Retest

Scientific MethodScientific Method1. State the Problem –

• State the problem that to be solved through experimentation• Ex: Does the amount of sunlight

effect the growth of a plant?

2. Form a Hypothesis – • Hypothesis – explanation for

a question or problem that can be tested• Ex: If a plant receives more

sunlight, then it will grow taller

Scientific MethodScientific Method3. Experiment –

• Create and conduct a procedure that tests a hypothesis by collecting information under controlled conditions• Constant - variable(s) that are kept the same

• Ex: soil type, plant type, container size, source of light, etc.

• Independent Variable – variable that changes• Ex: Amount of Sunlight

• Dependent Variable – the variable we measure• Ex: Height of the plants

• Control Group – the group that is the standard against which results are compared• Ex: A plant that is not given any sunlight

Scientific MethodScientific Method

4. Gather Data – • Data – information gained

from observations• Qualitative – information that

can be described in words and not measured numerically• Ex: color, smell, etc.

• Quantitative – information that can be collected numerically• Ex: height, weight, hours,

etc.

Scientific MethodScientific Method

5. Analyze Data – • Scientists often use graphs and

charts to display the data to find patterns

Scientific MethodScientific Method6. Form a Conclusion

• Scientists use their collected information to see if their hypothesis was right

• Often, the scientist then publishes their findings in order to share with peers and the public

7. Retest• Experiments are often redone by

either the original scientist or another scientist to see if they were correct