Scientific Inquiry

Scientific Method and Data

Scientific Inquiry

• Science is the pursuit of answers to questions.

• Scientists answer questions by designing experiments and gathering data to test a hypothesis.

• The process used to find answers is called “Scientific Inquiry” or the “Scientific Method.”

Scientific Method: This is a series of steps used by scientists to solve

problems. There are many paths that can be taken to solve a problem, here

is one possible method:

State the problem gather information develop a hypothesis

experiment collect and interpret data state a conclusion

Hypothesis: This is an educated guess. It is what you expect the outcome of

your experiment or the answer to your question to be.

Parts of an Experiment:

•Variables: Something that can affect the outcome of an

experiment. All variables must be kept the same except for the ONE

variable you are testing (The manipulated or independent variable.

•Manipulated Variable: the one variable that is changed by the

experimenter. Also known as the Independent Variable.

•Responding Variable: the variable that is expected to change as a

result of what you did to the manipulated variable. Also known as the

Dependent Variable (it depends on the independent variable).

Experiment

• In order for the results of an experiment to be valid or good, all the variables (parts) of an experiment must be

or .

in the experiment is the one thing you are testing. This is called the “ ” or

.

In a plant experiment, what needs to be controlled?

What needs to be controlled in a plant experiment?

• Question: I wonder what plant fertilizer grows the best plants?

• Hypothesis: I think Miracle Grow because it’s the most expensive.

• Controlled Variables: Amount of water, amount of sunlight, type of plant, type of soil…

• Manipulated Variable: Type of fertilizer.

• Data can be QUALITATIVE or QUANTITATIVE.

• Qualitative Data are all of the observable qualities of your test subject: taste, smell, color – Descriptions.

Qualitative Data: Brown, Liquid, Warm, Roasted, Rich Aroma

• Quantitative Data is any data that involves measurement, a number, or quantity.

Qualitative Data: There are three cups. The volume of each cup is 12 oz. The coffee temperature is 95 degrees Celsius.

Why is Data Important?

• Data is what you and scientists use to prove or explain the outcome of an experiment. These are the facts that you use in your conclusion.

• Your conclusion mustuse qualitative and/or quantitative data!