Scientific Method

scientific method

a series of steps that scientists use to answer questions and solve problems

hypothesis

An educated guess

data and results

A summary of the data you have collected (graphs, tables, charts, photos, etc.); all your observations from the experiment

conclusion

the answer to your question; a summary of what you have learned from an experiment

control group

part of an experiment that does not contain a variable; all conditions are kept normal; used as a COMPARISON

independent/manipulated variable

factor in an experiment that a scientist purposely changes; the cause

dependent/responding variable

the factor that changes (measured) as a result of the experiment; the effect

Problem

The question you want to answer. Inquiry has led to many discoveries in science. Ask your question.

Variables

Change one thing when you test your hypothesis. Keep everything else the same.

Experiments

Test your hypothesis. You may need to do this step more than once to see if the results are the same each time.

Data

Organize into charts, tables, drawing, and diagrams. You can decide what the information means.

Conclusion

Compare your results and hypothesis. Decide if your hypothesis is right or wrong. Tell what you decide.

Inquire

Use what you learn to answer other problems or questions . You may want to do your experiment again or change your experiment.