Intro to Biology

What is the Scientific Method?

The scientific method is a process for experimentation that is used to explore observations and answer questions. Click here for more information.

Scientific methodology involves observing and asking questions, making inferences and forming hypotheses, conducting controlled experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.

Terms related to the scientific method:

• hypothesis - a statement or prediction that can be tested. Written as an If, then statement. Example If a student studies for a test for one hours, then they will pass.

• experimental research design - testing a hypothesis through the use of a series of carefully controlled steps

• experimental error - errors that may occur in the execution of a science experiment

• Observation is something noticed using the senses. Inference is a logical interpretation of an observation.

Take-Aways

• Reflect on your results.

• What does this data mean?

• What could have caused experimental error?

• How would you change the method used to test the hypothesis on a future trial based on experimental error or complications which arose?

• What other questions might be asked related to this content?

• Should all of the test subjects utilized be included in the results?

Independent and Dependent Variables

Terms related to the scientific method:

• independent variable - the variable that is changed in an experiment

• dependent variable - the factor that is measured in an experiment

• constant - variables that are not changed, but stay the same

• control - sample treated like other experimental groups without the independent variable applied to it.

• Properties of Life