Scientific Method Notes

I. Scientific Data
A. First scientists come up with questions that
need to be answered.
B. Collecting data is the next step
1. This process usually takes the longest
time
2. Do this by observing with the five senses
3. Measuring data such as how many people
or how big the object is
4. Sampling is done for observing and
testing
a. Make sure you get enough samples
to get a accurate representation
5. Then you organize all your data some
order
C. Hypothesizing
1. This is done when many observations
have been done and data has been
collected
2. This statement explains their
observations and data and can be tested
3. Then scientists make a prediction to test
the hypothesis
D. Experimenting
1. This also tests a hypothesis or prediction
2. Controlled experiment means it is
controlled by someone
3. There is a control group and experimental
group
a. Each of these groups are the same
except for one factor.
b. The experimental group is given that
factor.
 c. The factor is called the independent
variable
d. A factor that is measured or
observed in both groups is called the
dependent variable which results from
the independent variable.
E. Analyzing data
1. Scientists must look at the data that was
taken from the experiment
2. Scientist look at the data to determine
what is saying about the test
F. Drawing conclusions
1. Modeling- an explanation supported by
data, can be visual, verbal, or mathematical
2. Inferring- a conclusion made on the basis
of facts rather than observation
a. Example: if you see smoke you infer
that it is fire causing the smoke
b. May not be testable
3. Theory- broad statement of what is
thought to be true
a. Example: theory of evolution by
natural selection