THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD

By: Drew Sandage

THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD

• Identify the problem

• Collect information

• Make a hypothesis or guess

• Test the hypothesis

• Draw conclusions

IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM

• Getting in mind the question you wish to answer

Example – Does a car get better fuel mileage by using higher octane fuel?

COLLECT INFORMATION

• Gather information about your problem from sources available

Example – Automotive magazines and newspaper articles

MAKE HYPOTHESIS OR GUESS

• Based on the information gathered, state the outcome you believe will be proven true

Example – I believe the fuel consumption per mile will decrease with the use of higher octane fuel (better mpg)

TEST THE HYPOTHESIS

• Conduct an experiment to determine the results of your hypothesis

Example – Over the course of a standard driving time and condition (such as to work), fill up with the lowest octane on one tank then try with the highest octane on the second tank.

DRAW A CONCLUSION

• Examine your test results to determine if your hypothesis was correct

Example – Calculate your fuel mileage for each tank of gas used to see which one was the most efficient

THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD

• Identify the problem

• Collect information

• Make a hypothesis or guess

• Test the hypothesis

• Draw conclusions