The Scientific Process A Logical StepbyStep Process to

The Scientific Process A Logical, Step-by-Step Process to Solving Problems

Choosing a Problem Find something that interests you (may be given) n Limit the topic (not too broad or narrow) n Write a question you want answered that can be tested with your available resources n

Research the Problem (Literature Review) Learn all you can about your topic n Used to understand what has already been studied about your problem n Background information to help create a hypothesis n

Write your HYPOTHESIS A testable statement that answers the problem n Must include an explanation/reason for your prediction n If________, then_______. n

Write your EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN n This Includes MATERIALS – List of all items to use for experiment – Bullet items on list, DO NOT number – No CAPITAL letters unless it’s a name brand n This includes PROCEDURES – Numbered statements that are complete sentences telling how to do the experiment – No “how-to” words – Very detailed and specific

Data Collection When following your procedures, date all recorded observations in a data log (book —bound item so paper is not lost) n Include both qualitative and quantitative n n n Explain the dependent variable. This is the thing that changed because of your experiment. Use sketches/diagrams of observations

Graphs n Use your collected data to create 1 or more graphs – Line graphs for changes over time – Bar graphs for comparing – Circle graphs for part of a whole n Be sure to include explanatory title, axis scales, axis labels w/ appropriate units in parentheses, and key

Data Analysis (Results) n Summarize the data collected and interpret the data - Comparisons made between variables tested: differences and percent changes Facts only n Include references to charts, tables, and graphs n

Conclusions The “So What” n Has 3 parts n – Claim – Evidence – Reasoning

Conclusions – The Claim A statement about the solution to your question and hypothesis n Must be accurate and complete n Should be based on collected data, but the data should NOT be mentioned in the statement. n

Conclusions – The Evidence Identify the specific scientific evidence that supports the claim. n Must be sufficient (lots of supporting data) n Includes numerical data. n All data has appropriate labels/units. n

Conclusions – Reasoning n n Justifies claim and evidence…showing why data counts as evidence through the use of appropriate and sufficient scientific principles. Provides scientific link between evidence and claim. Includes appropriate scientific concepts. Does not “repeat” data from evidence.