Scientific Method 1.2

I. Stating the Problem

A. Before investigating any problem, scientists must develop a clear statement defining the problem.

II. Gathering information on the Problem

A. A scientist will begin solving the problem by gathering information.

III. Forming a Hypothesis

A. After gathering information, the scientist would then suggest a possible solution to the problem.

1. Hypothesis - a proposed solution to a scientific problem.

IV. Experimenting

A. Scientists must now prove or disprove their hypothesis with an experiment.

1. An experiment must be devised so that there is both an experimental set-up and a control set-up.

a. An experimental set-up has only one variable, or factor that is being tested.

b. A control set-up is exactly like the experimental set-up except that the control experiment does not contain a variable.

V. Recording and Analyzing Data

A. Scientists must write down information from the experiment and compare and contrast the information.

1. Data - recorded observations and measurements.

VI. Stating a Conclusion

A. After running the experiment and recording and analyzing the data, the scientist would likely make a conclusion that either proves or disproves the hypothesis.

VII. Repeating the Work

A. A scientist will repeat his/her work many times to verify their initial results.

VIII. Scientific Method in Your World

A. Everybody uses the scientific method or some steps of the scientific method in their daily lives.