Transcript Scientific Method Presentation

SCIENCE
A process whose goal is to
understand the world
around us
THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD
THE SIX STEPS OF THE
SCIENTIFIC METHOD
(1) Observe and State a Problem
Asking
a question
(2) Form a Hypothesis

Proposed explanation (If, then
statement)
(3) Test the Hypothesis





Variables – factors that can change
3 Categories of Variables:
1. Manipulated Variable (independent
variable) – factor that scientists purposely
change
2. Responding Variable (dependent
variable) – factor that may change
because of the manipulated variable and
that scientists want to observe
3. Controlled Variables – factors that
scientists purposely keep the same
(3) Test the Hypothesis, cont.




A controlled experiment is set up with a
control group and the experimental group
All the groups in an experiment are treated
exactly the same except for the manipulated
variable
In the experimental group, the manipulated
variable is being changed
The control group is used as a standard of
comparison (it may consist of objects that are
not changed in any way or objects that are
being treated in the usual way – natural
conditions)
(4) Record and Analyze Results
Plant Growth

90
Data - written
80
observations,
70
60
Height
charts &
50
(cm)
40
graphs
30
20
10
0
10
20
30
40
Days
Plant #1
Plant #2
Plant #3
(5) Form a Conclusion
 Evaluate
the
hypothesis
(6) Repeat the Experiment
 Especially
important for work
to be published
Fact
vs.
 Something
known to
be true
Theory
 When
a
hypothesis
is tested and
confirmed by
scientists