Scientific Method Five Steps 1 Define the problem

Scientific Method

Five Steps } } } 1. Define the problem 2. Research the problem 3. Develop a hypothesis 4. Develop a controlled experiment 5. Collect/Analyze the data and come up with a conclusion

Step #1 } DEFINE THE PROBLEM § Make sure only one problem is being studied § Limit the scope of your investigation

Step #2 } RESEARCH THE PROBLEM § Use all available resources to collect data on the subject being covered. § Use libraries, internet, books, magazines, personal interviews, etc.

Step #3 } DEVELOP A HYPOTHESIS § Make it a short definitive statement. § Should be an “if” “then” statement § The “if” part is the hypothesis § The “then” part should be the expected results received at the end of the controlled experiment.

A hypothesis can be changed, it is not formed in concrete.

Step #4 } DEVELOP A CONTROLED EXPERIMENT § An experiment that contains one experimental variable (the thing being tested). § All other variables must be the same (controlled variable). § Keeping these the same allows us to show that the experimental variable was what caused the results.

Experimental Variable } One experimental variable is tested at a time } All other variables must be kept the same } Also called the independent variable

Controlled Variables } Variables that are kept the same in the experiment. } Allows the experimenter to show that it was the tested variable (experimental variable) that caused the results.

Independent Variable } The same as the experimental variable

Dependent Variable } Changes in response to the independent variable. } Is often the measured value used to evaluate the experiment.

Step #5 } COLLECT/ANALYZE DATA & MAKE A CONCLUSION § Data must be collected consistently, always follow the same procedure while collecting data. § Data may or may not support hypothesis § If the hypothesis is proven wrong, change the hypothesis, not the data.