The Scientific Method

Science:

Is a particular way to investigate the world, a systematic attempt to understand the universe

Observation

The fundamental activity in science. Formulate a problem Ask a question: why? how? Example: “The Effect of Light on Seed

Germination”.

Make observations

Suppose you noticed that corn seeds left on the surface of soil fail to germinate as readily as those buried in the soil.

Hypothesis

A proposal that might be true Light at the surface might be preventing the

germination of the seeds.

Prediction

Make a prediction based on the hypothesis. If corn seeds are exposed to light, then they

will not germinate as well as seeds placed in the dark.

Conduct an Experiment

Test prediction. Design an experiment.

Assemble Two Sets

Experimental setup Control

Assemble Two Sets

Obtain 20 corn seeds; soak all seeds in water for 1 hour only.

Divide the seeds into 2 groups of 10. Wet 2 paper towels. Place one wet, folded paper towel into each

of 2 Ziploc bags. Place 10 seeds on top of the paper towel

and seal the bags.

Experimental Setup

The setup to which the variable is applied Variable: that setup that is intentionally

altered in an experiment. This setup is the bag you place exposed to

light for one week.

Control

The setup in an experiment in which conditions are not altered.

The control is the bag you place in a location where is not exposed to light of any sort for one week.

Results

Analyze and interpret results in light of the original hypothesis.

After one week, count and record the number of germinating seeds in each set.

Reach Conclusion

Accept hypothesis OR Reject hypothesis and propose new one. Based on your results, does light prevent

the germination of the seeds?

Theory

A hypothesis supported by great deal of evidence

Review

The fundamental activity in science. ?? That setup in an experiment in which

conditions are not altered. It allows a standard of comparison for the experimental group.

A possible answer to a scientific question. A procedure designed to test a hypothesis.

Question 1

The experimental setup in an experiment: A. makes the experiment valid. B. is an additional replicate for statistical

purposes. C. reduces the experimental errors. D. the setup to which the variable is applied. E. allows a standard of comparison for the

experimental group.

Question 2

What should we propose and test in order to arrive a solution to a problem?

A. laws. B. theory. C. hypothesis. D. facts. E. principles.

Answers

Question 1: D. the setup to which the

variable is applied.

Question 2: C. hypothesis.