Thinking like a scientist Quick Write In your

Thinking like a scientist

Quick Write � In your notebook, write for 3 minutes about what it means to “think like a scientist”.

What is the scientific method? �A flexible but logical process � Some steps… 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Pose a question Develop a hypothesis (“If, then” statement) Design an experiment & make observations Analyze the data Draw conclusions Reflect, modify and repeat

A controlled experiment Variable: a factor or condition that can change in an experiment. EX. What variables might affect the taste a homemade pizza?

Scientific Method

Warm Up � On a piece of scrap, write your name and list the 5 steps to the scientific method.

A controlled experiment � Tests a hypothesis in a careful way � All variables are held constant (same) except for the manipulated � Most have a control which is a group that does not get the treatment ◦ ex. If you’re testing the effect of fertilizer on plant growth, the control will not get any fertilizer.

3 Types of Variables � Manipulated (Independent): the variable that is intentionally changed in an experiment � Responding (Dependent): the variable that might be affected by changing the manipulated variable � Controlled: the variable that is not changed

3 Types of Variables �A student wanted to see if adding different amounts of cola to radish seedlings would affect how tall they grew. In this experiment, ◦ what is the manipulated variable? ◦ What is the responding variable? ◦ What should stay the same (controlled variables)?

Scientific Vocabulary Observation Using your senses to gain information about the world around you

Scientific Vocabulary Hypothesis An educated guess, possible answer to a scientific question that can be tested

Scientific Vocabulary Theory A basic hypothesis supported by many experiments over time