Scientific method

• What is the scientific method?

  A way to solve a problem through experiments
• What are the 7 stages of the Scientific Method?

  1. Observation
  2. Hypothesis
  3. Experimentation
  4. Collection and interpretation of data
  5. Conclusion
  6. Relating the conclusion to existing knowledge
  7. Reporting and publishing results
• What is the first stage of the Scientific Method?

  Observation
• How do you make an observation in the Scientific Method?

  Using senses or equipment like microscopes
• What is a hypothesis?

  An educated guess based on observations
• What should a hypothesis include?

  All observed facts leading to predictions
• Given the observation "The car won’t start," what is a possible hypothesis?

  A jump-start will start the car
• What is the purpose of an experiment in the Scientific Method?

  To test a hypothesis
• What is a key requirement for an experiment?

  It must be replicable
• What should an experiment contain regarding variables?

  Only one variable should be tested
• What is the difference between an experimental group and a control group?

  Experimental group has changed variables
• What does data consist of in an experiment?

  Measurements, observations, or information gathered
• What is the conclusion in the Scientific Method?

  It states if the prediction was confirmed
• How do you relate the conclusion to existing knowledge?

  Compare your conclusion with existing knowledge
• What happens if results contradict the hypothesis?

  The hypothesis is rejected
• Where are scientific results typically published?

  In scientific journals and on the internet
• What is a theory in scientific terms?

  A hypothesis supported by many experiments
• What is a principle or law in science?

  A theory validated over a long period
• What are the principles of experimentation?

  1. Careful planning and design
  2. Safety of the experiment
  3. Design a control experiment
  4. Fairness in experiments
• What is a variable in an experiment?

  A factor that may change during testing
• Why is a control used in experiments?

  To provide a standard for comparison
• What does it mean for an experiment to be fair?

  It must avoid bias and have a large sample size
• What is double-blind testing?

  Neither participants nor researchers know results
• What are the limitations of the Scientific Method?

  • Limited by basic knowledge
  • Poor design or implementation
  • Incorrect interpretation of results
  • Changes in the natural world
  • Accidental discoveries
  • Emotional involvement of investigator
  • Ethical issues
• In the Vitamin C experiment, what is the control group?

  The group receiving the placebo
• What are the key terms related to the Scientific Method?

  • Hypothesis
  • Data
  • Theory
  • Principle
  • Variable factor
  • Control
  • Replicate
• What is the purpose of homework in relation to the Scientific Method?

  To reinforce understanding of key concepts