scientific method steps

what are the steps of the scientific method

1. determine the problem

2. collect information through observation

3. formulate a hypothesis

4. experiment to test the hypothesis

5. observe and record data from the experiment

6. draw conclusions

7. scientific theory

a tentative scientific explanation that can be tested by further observation/experimentation

make a hypothesis

can be based in inferences- logical interpretations based on what scientist already know

make a hypothesis

factor in an experiment that scientists purposely keep the same

control

experimental variable that is deliberately changed

independent variable

experimental variable that is observed and changes in response to the independent variable

dependent variable

along the y axis

dependent variable

along the x axis

independent variable

charts, graphs, data sheets

observe and record data from the experiment

what is quantitative?

numerical

what is qualitative

descriptive

must be based entirely on fact

draw conclusions

well tested explanation that unifies a broad range of observations

scientific theory