The document outlines the key steps of the scientific method: observation, hypothesis, experiment, and conclusion. It discusses performing experiments, including developing procedures, collecting data, and analyzing results to determine if the hypothesis is supported or needs revision. Potential sources of bias are addressed, as well as the importance of collaboration and replication in scientific research. Safety protocols for the laboratory are also covered.

1. Science Inquiry
Performing the
Experiment
Collecting &
Presenting Data

2. In your lab notebook, please answer as best you can:
1. What are the four MAIN steps of the Scientific Method?
• Observation, Hypothesis, Experiment, Conclusion
2. What happens during the FIRST step of the Scientific Method?
• Observe the world around you, recognize a problem/curiosity, ask a testable
question, and gather background information
3. What is an “If…, then…, because…” statement that gives an educated
guess to the scientific question being investigated?
• Hypothesis
4. What are the things in an experiment that will change called?
• Variables
4. Name what IV and DV stand for and explain what they are.
• IV = Independent Variable, the thing you choose to test/change (cause)
• DV = Dependent Variable, the measured response to the IV (effect)
Bonus Q: What are the things in an experiment that do NOT change called & why are they important?
Review
Quiz 13

3. Bias in Scientific Research
• Hypothesizing requires speculation
– bias is an assumed belief that affect the way you see and
understand things
– bias is always present when formulating a hypothesis
• The Scientific Method forces only the
facts to be considered
– seeks to eliminate variables that can skew
results
– encourages collaboration & accountability
• shared results, repeated studies
– still, bias is ALWAYS present & affects
many research outcomes

4. The Scientific Method - Experiment
• What will you need to perform your experiment?
– List of materials
• Fine-tune your list, plan ahead
• Remember safety equipment
• HOW will you perform the experiment?
– Step-by-step procedure
• Specific and detailed!
• Include method of data collection
– DEMO: Build a Model

5. Lab Safety
• Read, listen, and follow directions carefully.
• NO gum, food or drinks during lab time.
• Proper attire (shoes, hair, protective items).
– Goggles, labs coats & gloves will be provided.
• Eyewash sink (for skin, too).
• Fumes.
• Clean-up (proper disposal). *NOT down the drain*

6. The Scientific Method –
Performing the Experiment
• Write down your:
–Modified List of Materials
• Add to or remove items from your previous list
• Plan on enough materials for MULTIPLE TRIALS
• Include safety gear/supplies
–Detailed List of Procedures
• Step-by-step
• Numbered list
• Objective (measurable) data collection
• Planned ahead with written instructions, but edit in
detail as the experiment is performed

7. State the
Problem (as a ?)
Do Background
Research
"Best Guess"
Solution
Design (Materials
& Procedures)
Perform (Collect
& Analyze Data)
Report Results
Hypothesis is
False or Partly True
Hypothesis is
True
Revise!
Try Again
Conclusion
Experiment
Hypothesis
Observation

8. Experiment Procedures
• To perform an experiment, you need written
procedures. Why?
– to record EXACTLY what you did
• Detailed, step-by-step instructions
• Specific list of materials (name brand of soap used, etc.)
– so it can be repeated (by you or others)

9. Experiment Data Collection
• As you perform the experiment, observations and
data must be recorded.
– measurements listed in a chart
– written observations
– drawings
– photos
Magnet Type
(Independent Variable)
Distance to Paper Clip (cm)
(Dependent Variable)
N Pole
Trial 1 Trial 2
S Pole
Trial 1 Trial 2
Midway
between N & S
Ceramic bar
Neodymium disc
Oval hematite

10. The Scientific Method - Conclusion
• Next, an analysis of the data is required:
– numbers, observations, and measurements are broken
down, organized, and studied to gain better understanding
– patterns often emerge, showing cause-and-effect
relationships
• After analyzing your data, you form a CONCLUSION
– The measurements, when compared, showed an average 1.6 mm
difference in length and .8 mm difference in width.
– The cast was almost identical in shape, but did not fit into the mold of
the hypothesized animal because it was 7 mm smaller in width and 4
mm shorter length-wise.
– This supports the hypothesis that the animal tracks were made by...

11. The Scientific Method
• If hypothesis is rejected
– modify and repeat
• If hypothesis is supported
– repeat to verify results
– share findings and let others perform the experiment
• Either way, something was learned!
– NEVER make up results simply because you
think it was “supposed” to go differently

12. State the
Problem (as a ?)
Do Background
Research
"Best Guess"
Solution
Design (Materials
& Procedures)
Perform (Collect
& Analyze Data)
Report Results
Hypothesis is
False or Partly True
Hypothesis is
True
Revise!
Try Again
Conclusion
Experiment
Hypothesis
Observation

13. F = Gm1m2
r2
Fact - Theory - Law
• Fact:
– an objective, verifiable observation of
something that occurs in our natural world
– i.e. gravity, natural selection, heat exchange
• Theory:
– an explanation of how natural occurrences work
• it can be repeated, and tested with predictable results
• a hypothesis that is proven correct often explains part of theory
– i.e. Theory of Gravity, Theory of Evolution, Kinetic Theory of Matter
• Law:
– a mathematical description of observable phenomenon
– i.e. Newton's First Law of Universal Gravitation