Scientific Method

Question 1

problem

Answer 1

posed as a question. “what is the effect of … on …?”

Question 2

research

Answer 2

informs the experimenter prior to forming a hypothesis

Question 3

hypothesis

Answer 3

educated “guess” informed by researching the topic or from prior knowledge

Question 4

experimental design

Answer 4

experiment variables are identified and method for collecting data is identified

Question 5

manipulated variable

Answer 5

aspect of experiment that is altered between test groups or trials

Question 6

responding variable

Answer 6

aspect of the experiment that the experimenter seeks to measure

Question 7

controlled variable

Answer 7

aspects of the experiment that are held constant between test groups or trials

Question 8

evidence

Answer 8

data collected during experiment; may be qualitative or quantitative

Question 9

analysis

Answer 9

potential trends in data are revealed during this step; calculation of graphs are commonly used

Question 10

conclusion

Answer 10

statement that answers the problem

Question 11

peer review

Answer 11

ensures the experimental design used to collect data and analysis of data is valid, therefore increasing the confidence of the conclusion