Scientific Method

1. Scientific Method • When solving problems scientifically we follow a series of steps to avoid wasting time, effort, and resources. These steps include: • 1. Defining the ________ (may include research or observation) • 2. Research the problem or question. What has been done already? • 3. Stating a ____________ (explanation of observation; must be able to be tested) • 4. _________ the hypothesis (involves measurement of one variable at a time) • 5. Analyzing the _________ (data organized in graphs, tables, and charts) • 6. Drawing _____________ (returning to step #2 as needed) ***This is not a rigid, step-by-step outline.*** problem hypothesis Testing results conclusions

2. What are the Steps in Scientific Method?

3. Vocabulary Control • ________- the standard for comparison in an experiment. • _______- all the variables we are not • testing and trying to keep the same • ___________________- factor in an experiment that may change if the independent variable changes, the dependent variable is what is measured • _____________________- factor that the experimenter changes Constants Dependent Variable Independent Variable

4. A student formulated a hypothesis that cotton will grow larger bolls (pods) if magnesium is added to the soil. The student has two experimental fields of cotton, one with magnesium and one without.

5. What is the independent variable in the experiment” magnesium

6. What is the control in the experiment? The group grown without magnesium.

7. What are possible constants in the experiment? Amount of water, soil, sunlight. Type of Soil Temperature

8. What would be a possible dependent variable in the experiment? Pod Size