The scientific method is a process scientists use to explore the world around them.

Not everyone performs the process exactly the same way. However, there are components that every experiment needs.

• Problem or question• Hypothesis• Repeatable Procedure• Results (observations, data) • Interpretive Conclusion

A hypothesis can be worded very differently from person to person and experiment to experiment.

never use I think, I believe , I guess….You are the scientist

All hypothesis should have the following qualities:• 1. testable• 2. falsifiable• 3. contain only one independent variable

Procedure

• When setting up the procedure, always pay attention to whether or not the directions are repeatable .

• In order for data/results to be meaningful, other scientists need to be able to achieve the same end and support your data

Variables and Procedure• One of the most difficult procedures, is to isolate

only one independent variable and to accurately measure the dependent variable. This is most difficult when humans are the test subjects.

• Ex. Running miracle pill

VARIABLES:

• Independent : is the one the scientist is manipulating or controlling.

• dependent: is the one the responds to whatever stimulus the scientist is controlling. This is the data you collect during an experiment.

• control: this is not a variable but a way to verify and substantiate your results along with the fact that other scientists should be able to repeat these results.

• Constant or standards: are also not variables. These constitute the experimental setup trying to ”guarantee” that only one variable is causing the results.

Data can be recorded in two ways:

Quantitative results are numerical and very hard to misunderstand.

Whereas, qualitative results are extremely helpful illustrating the results but can be interpreted differently between individuals even bit a small amount.

A combination of observations and results often gives the best description of the results.

Communication of these results is important and can be accomplished several ways.

In labs, we will most often use trend line graphs and conclusion/interpretive paragraphs. Conclusions allow the scientist to “put it all together”.

Inferences are used to explain the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable.

Further inferences are made and may easily and usually lead to a subsequent experiment.

Science is a process.

• Usually, we learn by doing, making mistakes and learning from them. Take risks and you will learn so much more!

• We will explore each of these sections in more depth as we go through the year. You will be able to demonstrate scientific expertise in a research project of some format. We will practice, practice, practice !!!!!