Scientific Method A blueprint for experiment success What

Scientific Method A blueprint for experiment success.

What is the scientific method? n It is a simple method scientists use to conduct an investigation. n It is a way to ask & answer scientific questions by asking questions & conducting experiments.

1. Question/Problem n Ask a question about something observed. – Why? – How? – What? n Question to be solved. n Tip: How does(independent variable) affect (dependent variable)?

2. Hypothesis Educated guess about how things work. n Prediction n Use If, then statements If ____ [independent variable], then _____ [dependent variable] Claim

3. Design an Experiment n List of materials need to conduct experiment. n Sequenced list of what will be done during the experiment n In order for results to be valid, conduct several (3) trials or tests.

4. Collect Data n Make a data table and record your data. X (independent variable) Y (dependent variable)

5. Analyze Data n Graph using T. A. I. L – Graph the data to look for trends & relationships. Evidence Y X

Every Good Graph Has a T. A. I. L n T= Title- using axis’ labels n A= Axis x=independent variable y=dependent variable n I= Interval- needs to fit your data n L= Labels with Units- units on axis labels

6. Draw Conclusions State if your hypothesis (claim) was correct or incorrect. n Restate the hypothesis n Prove it with data (evidence) from your experiment. n Claim + Evidence=Your Argument

7. Communicate Results n What did you find out? n What would you change about your experiment? n What “wonderings” do you have after conducting this experiment?