Scientific Method

• The scientific method is a process of conducting valid investigations to test hypotheses.
• 1. Recognition of the problem
  2. Collection of information related to the problem
  3. Making the hypothesis
  4. Testing the hypothesis- or prediction is made from it
  5. Collection of data from the experiment
  6. If hypothesis is supported, make a conclusion, if hypothesis is disproved, make another hypothesis
  7. New questions to be answered
• Independent variable is the factor that is being investigated, meaning it is deliberately changed to determine how it affects the results
• Dependent variable is the factor that changes due to the independent variable. It is the variable that is measured.
• Controlled variables are variables that are kept constant throughout the experiment.
• Validity: a valid method that fairly tests the hypothesis so the only factor that affects the results is the independent variable
• Accuracy: The degree to which a measurement is close to the true value.
• Reliability: The extent to which a test yields consistent results when repeated.
• Human error: A mistake or error made by a person.
• Random error: The error that is unpredicted in the experiment
• Systematic error: An error caused by an instrument, apparatus or procedure used during the experiment