This document outlines the scientific method, which is a series of steps scientists use to answer questions and solve problems. The steps include: 1) asking a question and making observations, 2) forming a hypothesis, 3) testing the hypothesis through experiments and research, 4) analyzing data and results to determine if the hypothesis is supported, 5) drawing conclusions, and 6) communicating results. Following the scientific method helps ensure scientific progress through meaningful investigations.

1. 8th
Grade Science
Content Standard
8.9 Scientific progress is made by
asking meaningful questions and
conducting careful investigations.

2. The Scientific Method
A series of steps that
scientists use to
answer questions and
solve problems.

3. 1. Ask a Question
• Questions identify
something you don’t
know, but want to find
out.
• We ask a question
after making many
observations.
• An observation is any
use of the senses to
gather information.

4. 2. Form a Hypothesis
• A hypothesis is a
possible explanation
or answer to your
question.
• Use what you already
know and any
observations you have
made to form your
hypothesis.

5. 3. Test the Hypothesis
• Test to determine if
your hypothesis is a
reasonable answer to
your question.
• Test only one variable
at a time
• Conduct a controlled
experiment with a
control group and an
experimental group.
• Both groups are the
same except for one
factor in the
experimental group,
called a variable.
• The experiment
determines the effect
of the variable.

6. Test the Hypothesis Cont.
• Sometimes a controlled experiment is not
possible.
• When this happens, scientists test their
hypothesis by making additional
observations or by conducting research.
• An observation is is any use of the senses to
gather information.
• Measurements are observations made with
instruments.

7. Collecting Data
• Data are any pieces of
information acquired
while testing your
hypothesis.

8. 4. Analyze the Results
• You must analyze your data and
observations to determine whether the
results of your test support the hypothesis.
Example: make tables and graphs
• Organizing numerical data into tables and
graphs makes relationships between
information easier to see.

9. 5. Draw Conclusions
• Do your results
support your
hypothesis?
• Do your results NOT
support your
hypothesis?
• Do you need more
information?

10. If the Results Don’t Support the
Hypothesis
• You should check your results or calculations for
errors.
• You may have to modify or form a new
hypothesis.
• You may need to gather more information, test
your hypothesis again, or redesign the procedure.

11. 6. Communicate Results
• Telling others what
you have learned is
how science keeps
going.
• You can write a
scientific paper
explaining your
results.
• You can make a
presentation.

12. THINK ABOUT IT
• 1. What difference does it make what
question is asked to begin your experiment?
• 2. When following the scientific method,
what is the correct procedure for
investigation?