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The Scientific Method

The scientific method is a systematic approach to answering questions through observation, hypothesis, experimentation, and analysis. Begin with observation, like noting a flashlight that doesn't work. Formulate a question, such as, “Why is the flashlight not working?” Then, hypothesize that the batteries are dead. Experiment by replacing the batteries and testing the flashlight. Utilize both quantitative and qualitative data to analyze the results, draw conclusions, and verify findings. A well-structured experiment involves variables, control groups, and thorough data analysis.

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The Scientific Method

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  1. The Scientific Method • A simple process answering a question

  2. Example #1: • Observation: • Turn on flashlight button and no light

  3. 2. State the problem/question. • Why is the flashlight not working?

  4. 3. Form a hypothesis (“educated” guess) • Flashlight batteries are dead, causing flashlight to not work.

  5. 4. Collect data by testing your hypothesis. • Replace old batteries with new ones, making sure they are inserted correctly. • Flashlight still does not work!

  6. 2 Types of Data • Quantitative: uses numbers (measuring, counting) • Qualitative: does not use numbers (works, doesn’t work)

  7. A good experiment has: • Variable (changes) • Independent Variable = thing experimenter makes different ex. New batteries or old? • Dependent Variable = what happens when the independent variable is applied ex. Does flashlight work or not?

  8. and a “control” group. • The group you are comparing the experimental group to; • Ex. If testing a drug for its ability to lower blood pressure, the control group would not get the active drug but would get a “placebo” (a pill with no active ingredients)

  9. 5. Analyze data. • Organize data in a meaningful way, look for patterns. • Charts • Graphs • Tables

  10. 6. Conclusion • Experimental answer to your problem. • Conclusion may verify or disprove your hypothesis.

  11. 7. Verify results. (This strengthens your research) • Theory: when a hypothesis is verified • Law: when a theory is tested repeatedly with same results

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