The document outlines the key aspects of experimental design for the scientific method, including defining a hypothesis, establishing controls and variables (independent and dependent), maintaining constants, using adequate sample sizes, collecting quantitative data, and presenting data in graphs or charts while avoiding bias. The goal is to use this problem-solving method to construct an accurate representation of the world through testing hypotheses with well-designed experiments.

1. Scientific Method NotesExperimental Design

2. Scientific Method:Process by which scientists, collectively, and over time, construct an accurate representation of the worldProblem-solving method

3. Hypothesis:An educated prediction or guess based on observations and research

4. Control:Portion of the experiment that remains unchanged and is used for comparison

5. Variable:Portion of the experiment that is changed in order to test hypothesisShould only be testing one

6. Independent Variable:The variable or change you are manipulating

7. Dependent Variable:The variable or change that happens as a result of your change

8. Constants:All other conditions of your experiment outside of the one independent variable should be exactly the same

9. Sample Size:The more samples or tests you have the better, with a minimum of three to five

10. Data to Collect:Quantitative data (data that can be easily counted or measured)

11. Presenting Data:All data should be presented in a chart and/or graph with everything categorized or labeled

12. Line GraphShows trends over time

13. Bar GraphGood for comparison of data

14. Pie ChartsShow percentage of the whole

15. Bias:Avoid favoring one sample over another and ignoring or dismissing data counter to your hypothesis