The Scientific Method Keep the Miracle Gro’ experiment in

mind

We will have a quiz on this material tomorrow – Wednesday (9/18)

Step 1: Ask a Question What is a testable question?

• A question that one can find an answer to through an activity or experiment

The question begins with…• “How”• “Can”• “What”

The question does not begin with “Why”

Step 1: Ask a Question

“Why are strawberries so big?”

“How does the amount of rainfall affect the size of strawberries?”

Step 2: Background Research

What are some good resources?

Step 3: Form a Hypothesis Hypothesis: A proposed answer to a

question based on prior knowledge

“If strawberries receive more than the average rainfall in a growing season, then their size will be above average.”

Step 4: Test with an Experiment

A detailed, ordered process that includes the procedure and materials

Control• Factor(s) not changed

Control group• The standard group used for comparison

against the experimental group

Step 4: Test with an Experiment

Variables• Factors that can be changed

Independent variable• Factor that the experimenter is

manipulating

Dependant variable• Factor that responds to the independent

variable

Step 4: Test with an Experiment

Data• Detailed information gathered during the

experiment stated clearly without opinion

• 2 types of data Quantitative – numerical, must include units

(metric) Qualitative – descriptive, using sensory input

• How is data organized?

Step 5: Analyze Data and Draw Conclusions

How can data be displayed?

Every graph should include:• Title that clearly identifies the relationship

between independent and dependant variable

• Labeled axes, including appropriate units• Consistent and appropriate scale

Step 5: Analyze Data and Draw Conclusions

Conclusion – A clear, well-focused analysis of the question based on the data and observations collected

Step 5: Analyze Data and Draw Conclusions

In a perfect conclusion you will find: A claim, well supported by relevant data Important information Appropriate terminology More than the obvious or predictable Details in logical order Complete, well constructed sentences No personal pronouns Facts states clearly without opinion

Step 6: Communicate Results

Why is this important?

Reasoning

2 types• Deductive

The use of a general concept that is applied to a specific situation

• Inductive The use of specific facts to create a general rule