Scientific method power point slideshare
- 1. Page 1© Amy Brown Science
- 2. Page 2 What is Science? Science is the organized study of the world around us through observation and experiment. Scientists propose explanations that can be tested by examining evidence.
- 3. Page 3 How is Science Done? Science begins with observations – which leads to questions. Observations - information gathered using the 5 senses – seeing, hearing, smelling, touching, and tasting
- 4. Page 4 Scientific Methods The scientific method is: a series of steps used by scientists to solve a problem or answer a question. Steps to the Scientific Method 1. Asking a Question 2. Form a Hypothesis 3. Design an Experiment 4. Record and Analyze Data 5. Draw Conclusions
- 5. Page 5 Step 1: Asking a Question A problem or a question must first be identified. The question is the topic to be investigated (written in the form of a question.) Example: Does adding sugar to water keep flowers fresh?
- 6. Page 6 A hypothesis is a prediction or possible answer to the question. A hypothesis must be stated in a way that is “testable”. Step 2: Forming a Hypothesis *testable – means there must be measurable data Example If sugar is added to the water in a vase, then the flowers will stay fresh longer.
- 7. Page 7 Step 3: Designing an Experiment The factors in an experiment that can be changed are called variables. In controlled experiments scientists change only one variable at a time. All other variables are kept constant or “controlled”. Describe in detail what you plan to do to test your hypothesis. Identify Variables
- 8. Page 8 Independent and Dependent Variables The independent variable is the variable that is being tested or changed by the scientist. The dependent variable is the one observed or measured during the experiment. No sugar Add sugar Independent variable = sugar (added sugar to one and not the other) Dependent variable = amount of time flowers stay fresh (measure) …after 3 days
- 9. Page 9 Step 4: Recording and Analyzing Data The data collected during the experiment must be organized and analyzed to determine whether the data is reliable.
- 10. Page 10 Step 5: Drawing Conclusions The data from the experiment is used as evidence to determine if the hypothesis is correct or incorrect. *Experiments must be repeated over and over before a valid conclusion can be reached.