The document outlines the scientific method, which is a systematic process used by scientists to study nature and gain knowledge. It consists of six steps: stating a problem or question, gathering information, formulating a hypothesis, designing an experiment with control and experimental groups and only one variable, recording and analyzing data, and stating a conclusion. The scientific method will be used to study pedology, the study of soil, with an experiment that has defined constants, variables, control and experimental groups.

1. 7 th Grade: Chapter 1 Lesson 1 Scientific Method Pgs. 3-8 For student use only

2. Scientific Method Purpose of Science: To observe nature and discover the laws of creation so that they can be put to the benefit of mankind. How do we observe nature? We ask questions and do experiments!

3. Scientific Method In this chapter we will use the Scientific Method to study pedology (the study of soil). Francis Bacon was one of the founders of modern science and introduced the scientific method of studying nature.

4. Scientific Method Scientific Method: a systematic way that scientists gather and pursue scientific knowledge. Three main parts of Scientific Method: Observation- gathering data (using what you know) Hypothesizing- educated guess Experimentation- methodical testing of hypothesis

5. Scientific Method Scientific Method: 6 steps State your problem or question Gather information Formulate a hypothesis- (make a guess about your problem or question) Design an experiment Record and Analyze data- compare control and test groups State your conclusion

6. Scientific Method Design an experiment: You must include: Control groups- the groups used for comparison (the standard) Experimental groups- group that is being tested

7. Scientific Method Design an experiment: Constants- things that are the same in both the control and experimental group (ex. same stopwatch used) Variables: conditions that are being tested (only in experimental group) ONLY test 1 variable at a time! Always repeat your experiment!