•The Process of Science
A. The Scientific method begins with a question

B. Observations are critical and include:

nGather direct information by using the senses

nApply previous learning, research new and relevant information

nIdentify possible variables which may affect the problem you are working with

C. Hypothesis: An “educated” explanation/answer for a problem

nIs testable

nPredicts an outcome

nWritten in an “if”….”then” format

nExample: If plants require light for proper growth, then 3 weeks of continuous light should increase plant growth.

D. Testing : Experiments are organized methods for testing hypotheses

nControlled variables- all the parts of the experiment which must be kept the same

nDependent variable – observed and/or measured results ( growth, behavior, hatching rate)

nIndependent variable- manipulated or varied by the experimenter (time, temp, humidity, concentration, pH)

nControl – filters out other explanations for results…allows for comparisons to the test material. A control omits the one variable being tested so the effects of a single factor can be determined.

E. Graphing

nThe dependent variable (what we measure) is assigned to the y-axis (vertical)

nThe independent variable (what WE vary) is assigned to the x-axis (horizontal)

F. Data: any information recorded during the experiment

nOrganize and display in charts, diagrams, and graphs

nClearly summarize results

nInclude drawings and narrative formats when needed

G. Conclusions:

nA hypothesis is never Correct or Incorrect, but rather Supported or Not Supported.

nAnalyze your data and cite specific data examples which back up your statement of support or non-support.

nDescribe what you have learned about the scientific concept from doing the lab.

nAre their sources of error or difficulties that arose in the course of the experiment which might have affected results?

nOne experiment can not provide all needed support, therefore experiments should always be repeated. What parts of the procedure might need to be changed or altered in future experiments and how or why might they affect the outcome?

nAnswers usually stimulate other questions. What new questions for investigation might be generated from your experimentation?