unit 1 the scientific method & variables. i. the goal of science to investigate! and...
TRANSCRIPT
I. The goal of science To INVESTIGATE! And UNDERSTAND! The
natural world... To explain events in the natural world To use those explanations to make
useful predictions
II. THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD There is no one SCIENTIFIC METHOD.
THERE ARE COMMON FEATURES IN HOW SCIENTISTS DO THEIR WORK.
Scientific Method1. Question/problem2. Background Research3. Hypothesis4. Experiment5. Data and Analysis6. Conclusion7. Report
2. Background Research
Inform yourself about the experiment
Inform the scientists of existing methods and materials.
Creates accountability and relevance.
3. Hypothesis It is an educated guess as to how
things workSometimes in an “if ____ then _____”
format. It explains the relationship of the
independent variable on the dependent variable.
Must be testable by performing controlled experiment or by gathering more data!
Variables• Independent (Manipulated)
variable: the thing that we personally alter.
• Dependent (Responding) variable: the thing that we record/measure.
• Constant variable: anything that is not altered during the course of the experiment.
4. ExperimentDevelop a detailed list of materials
and procedures. Define the independent and
dependent variable and constants, along with Control group and Experimental Group
Multiple trials are important. Why? Test experiment using proper safety
materials. Document all observations carefully.
QUALITATIVE: Characteristics
that cannot be measured or counted.
Color, shape, feel, taste, sound
QUANTITATIVE Based on exact
measurements The room is 8
meters across.
5. Record and Analyze Data Organize
quantifiable data. Put in chart or graph.
Make it easy for people to see differences/similarities
State trends. No conclusions
should be drawn. Graphs should be easy to see.
6. Conclusion Is the hypothesis
accepted or rejected?
Can we answer the overall question?
Implications for future study.
Sources of error. What did you learn
overall? Was it fun?
7. Report and Repeat Experiment
Compile all work into a presentable form.
Have other people repeat and verify the experiment.