Scientific Method A step by step approach used

Scientific Method A step by step approach used to solve scientific problems.

These steps include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Determining the problem- state the question Research – gather background info. Form a hypothesis-an educated guess Plan Experiment –to test your hypothesis Record Data – observations and measurements 6. Draw a conclusion - analyze the results 7. Retest – if the problem is not solved, change the hypothesis and repeat the experiment.

Observations Vs Inference • Observation – information obtained directly from any of the 5 human senses. (sight, smell, hearing, touch, taste) • Ex: The rock is black and shiny. LEADS TO AN INFERENCE • Inference – an interpretation of an observation. • Ex: This is an igneous rock.

Controlled Experiment • Variable- is a changeable factor in an experiment. • Control- is a standard for comparison. • In any experiment only one variable should be tested at a time. • WHY?

How to set it up… • Two identical experiments are set up • The experiments vary by one single factor called a variable • A variable can be any factor such as temperature, time, and light • One experiment has a change in the variable while the other experiment is unchanged and is called the control.

Theories • Explanations that apply to a broad range of phenomena and are supported by experimental evidence. • Can be proven false through later experimentation • Can have limits Vs Laws • A statement that describes a part of a phenomena that is always true. • Does not explain how or why something occurs only that it does.

Quiz • • • Number your paper 1 -5 and answer the questions on the following slide. You may use your notes!! You will have 10 minutes to complete this quiz. Good Luck! DONT FORGET TO PUT YOUR NAME ON THE PAPER!!

Quiz Questions – NO TALKING 1. What is the scientific method? 2. What is another way to describe a hypothesis? 3. Why is it important to have 1 variable and 1 control in an experiment? 4. Is the following statement an observation or an inference: “This flower is red and smells nice. ” 5. How do you draw a conclusion? • Please turn your paper over when you are done.