Observation process of obtaining info by using senses

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2 Experiment organized procedure to study something under controlled conditions Often investigate the natural world via investigation Observation process of obtaining info by using senses May involve models (representations of an object or a system)

3 Hypothesis idea or explanation that leads to scientific investigation Scientists may think of a hypothesis after making observations or reading findings from other investigations Must be carefully constructed so they can be tested in a practical & meaningful way If investigation results DO NOT support the hypothesis, the hypothesis is still useful! Can help others develop a better hypothesis Scientists may go through many cycles of testing & analysis before they arrive at a hypothesis that is supported

4 A variable is any factor that can change in a scientific investigation Independent Variable- factor that is DELIBRATELY manipulated Dependent Variable- changes as a result of manipulation of one ort more independent variables Dependent variables DEPEND on the Independent variable

5 EXAMPLE: If you fill 3 pots of water with differing amounts, then heat them until they boil The amount of water in each pot is the independent variable The time is takes for the water to boil is the dependent variable If possible, a scientific investigation should have 1 independent variable Other variables should be controlled or constant We call these variables: Controls or Constants Using our example: All pots should be made of the same material

6 Data- Info gathered by observations or experimentation that can be used in calculating or reasoning Anything a scientist observes with senses or perceives through instruments We analyze data to determine the relationship between the independent & dependent variables We then draw conclusions about whether our data supports our hypothesis

7 1. Define the Problem / Ask a Question 2. Research the Problem / Question 3. Form a Hypothesis 4. Plan an Investigation - Materials List - Procedure (step by step) 5. Identify Variables 6. Experiment - Collect & Organize Data 7. Interpret Info / Analyze Data 8. Draw / Defend Conclusions

8 Be curious about an unexplained topic Find something your interested in Put a unique spin on an experiment that has been done

9 Make an educated guess This should be a prediction of the outcome of the experiment Should be an answer to the question

10 Should test the hypothesis Determine the equipment & technology required for experimentation Figure out how you will obtain the necessary technology

11 Independent variable should be identified in the hypothesis Decide how the independent variable will change Need to identify what variables need controlled How will you measure results of the experiment How will dependent variable be measured / observed

12 Data must be collected & recorded properly in order to analyze You can use tables, charts, graphs, spreadsheets, etc.

13 Analysis necessary to draw conclusions Scientists can have different interpretations of the same data because they analyze it differently.

14 Should be well documented & have strong supporting evidence Variables should be controlled as much as possible Experimentation should be done multiple times for accuracy Should be able to be replicated by scientists not involved in the original investigation Should consult peer reviews Meaning scientists should be able to answer questions raised by other scientists regarding the investigation

15 Info is available on the internet, TV, magazine, & books The most reliable information is published in scientific journals Internet sources from the government or academic institutions is most credible (.gov or.edu) Commercial websites can be unreliable due to bias, intent to sell, & lack of standard of truth.