The Scientific Method

Question 1

What are the 6 steps in the Scientific Method?

Answer 1

1) Define purpose through observations and questioning
2) Construct hypothesis
3) Test hypothesis and collect data
4) Analyze data
5) Draw conclusions
6) Communicate results

Question 2

What can the Scientific Method be applied to?

Answer 2

almost any situation

Example

Let’s say I have a problem: My wallet is missing. How could I use the scientific method to solve this problem?

AT HOME

Problem:
Missing wallet

Data:
I went to the market to buy some goods with my friend Mae Ann. When I reached home I noticed that my wallet was gone.

Hypothesis:
My first hypothesis was: I lost it in the market while we were buying goods.
The second hypothesis was: Mae Ann got my wallet.
The third was: I had misplaced it in the house.

Experiments:
I searched all over the house for my wallet, but I could not find it. Then I went to Mae Ann to ask If she got my wallet. She
answered in the affirmative . She said she found it while she was on her way home near the market.

Conclusion:
I lost my wallet in the market and Mae Ann found it and gave it back to me.

Question 3

What is a Scientific Theory?

Answer 3

Based on many observations and experiments where
the hypothesis is shown to be “not true”

A proposed explanation of observed phenomena

 Deveoped using the scientific method, logic and sound reasoning

Not infallible!

Evolves
e.g. the theory of Continental Drift evolved into the theory of Plate Tectonics pp 62‐ 69

Question 4

What is a Scientific Law?

Answer 4

Theories that have stood the test of time

Analysis of enormous amounts of data

E.g. The law of Gravity