The Scientific Method
J.J. Merrill
Ask a Question
- Using observations and background knowledge, ask a meaningful question about the world around you!
- As simple as, “What kind of shampoo is the best bargain?”
- As complicated as your imagination can create
Do Background Research
Research your topic by finding information regarding the topic from any reliable sources available:
Internet
Professional Journals
Textbooks
Construct a Hypothesis
If/Then statements!
“If I race two rubber band cars then the one whose rubber band has more spins (stored energy) will go farther.”
Test your Hypothesis
DO YOUR EXPERIMENT!
Test your variables by following a procedure to decide if your hypothesis was correct.
Analyze Data/Draw Conclusions
What did you observe?
Was it what you thought it was going to be?
What went unexpectedly?
Why do you think it went the way it did?
Do you need to adjust your hypothesis?
Communicate your Results
Share what you learned with friends, family, classmates.
Results can be communicated through presentations, lab reports, or just sitting around having a conversation.
Bibliographies
Amal, I. (2010, November 01). Math game. Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/ikhlasulamal/5152734876
Blanchard, J. (2006, March 02). Affiche "think different" (einstein). Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/simssototo/141272015
D'World, V. (2006, May 08). Doing research. Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/view/142745616
Manfredi, A. (2010, March 01). Science fair 2010 - 19. Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/43447766@N04/4435379955
Microscopes. (2011, April 01). Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/myfwc/5733710965
Questions?. (2011, November 25). Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/70731452@N04/6403101327
Top Related