Scientific Method

1. Scientific Method How do scientists solve problems?

2. Observations • First step in scientific method • Made using 5 senses • Two types: • Qualitative • Refers to quality; cannot be measured • The chairs are hard • The walls are white • Quantitative • Measurement • There are 31 chairs in this class

3. Problem • What are you trying to solve? • Can be a statement or a question • Example: Are there 31 chairs in other Biology classes?

4. Form a Hypothesis • Prediction based on previous knowledge that can be tested • Often in If…., then… format • Need to be a testable solution to a problem • Example: If I count all the chairs in other Biology classes, then they will have 31 stools

5. Create an Experiment • All experiments should have a control and two variables • Control – Item results are compared with or something that does not change • Variables • Independent – what is altered or manipulated • Other classrooms • Dependent – what is observed and measured • Number of stools • All experiments should measure one variable at a time and should have a control or a group that remains constant

6. Record Results • All data is recorded in a data table • All rows and columns must be labeled with headings and units • All data tables should have a title describing the data and its source • Remember you UNITS

7. Analyze Results • Data is plotted in a graph • All graphs need: • Title • Labels on X (independent) and Y axis (dependent) • Key • Pick the graph that best describes your data • Types of graphs: • Bar – counting objects • Line – change over time • Pie chart - percentages

8. Draw a conclusion • Draw a conclusion be reviewing the research and your data • This does not PROVE a hypothesis • You can not say “I proved….” • You can say “the data supports/did not support my hypothesis” • It does support a hypothesis • Many experiments over time can lead to a theory or law