Scientific Inquiry Process

• ​Observe Natural Phenomenon or a Problem

• ​Ask a Testable Question

• ​Form a Hypothesis

• ​Perform a Controlled Experiment

• ​Collect and Analyze Data

• ​Form a Conclusion

• ​The hypothesis is a prediction that can be proven true or false

• ​Write your hypothesis as a statement:

  • ​"If (I do this) then (this will happen) because..."

• ​​Identify the variables

  • ​Independent: what is changed

  • ​Dependent: what is measured

  • ​Controlled: factors that stay the same for all groups

• ​Set up experimental groups and a control

• ​Write your steps down so they can be repeated

​Organize data in a table.

• ​Include Title and Headings for rows and columns

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Use Graphs to analyze and interpret data.

1. ​Tell the observer what your data shows

1. ​Does the data support your hypothesis?

2. ​Identify mistakes and sources of error.

3. ​Suggest future studies and improvements that could be made

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Some errors are random. Reduce the chance of random error by increasing sample size and number of trials​

• ​Is the publisher credible?

• Is there a hidden agenda or bias?​

• ​Is there a control group?

• ​Are there references?

• ​Present information in an organized way

• ​Use good public speaking habits

• ​Use correct spelling, grammar and punctuation.

• ​Scientific Laws: govern how we live on earth

• ​Scientific Theories: explain why things happen on Earth

• ​Hypothesis: An explanation before a test

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• ​Verifiable

• ​Reproducible

• ​Modifiable