Scientific Method Steps Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is step one of the scientific method?

Make observations, state the problem, and research related topics.

What is step two of the scientific method?

Form a hypothesis that explains the observations or problem, also known as the research question.

What is step three of the scientific method?

Perform experiments that test the research question or hypothesis and collect data.

What is step four of the scientific method?

Analyze data and draw a conclusion to determine if the hypothesis was proven or disproven. Signup and view all the answers

What is a hypothesis?

A tentative explanation, derived from research that is tested to check the validity of the research question. Signup and view all the answers

What is an experiment?

Trials performed to test (prove or validate) the hypothesis. Signup and view all the answers

What is an independent variable?

One thing being tested against (compared to) the control, also known as experimental and manipulated variable. Signup and view all the answers

What is a dependent variable?

Measured results that respond to independent variables, also known as the responding variable. Signup and view all the answers

What are control variables?

Variables that could impact your experiment but will not because you will hold them constant. Signup and view all the answers

What is data?

Measurements comparing the independent variable to the control group, used for drawing conclusions. Signup and view all the answers

What is a conclusion?

Analysis of data providing an answer to the hypothesis or research question. Signup and view all the answers

What is a theory?

A well-tested and widely accepted view by the scientific community that explains certain observable facts. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Scientific Method Steps

Step One: Make observations, articulate a problem, and research related topics to lay the foundation.
Step Two: Formulate a hypothesis to explain the observations or problem, known as the research question.
Step Three: Conduct experiments to test the research question and hypothesis, while collecting relevant data.
Step Four: Analyze the collected data to draw conclusions on whether the hypothesis was proven or disproven.

Key Terms

Hypothesis: A tentative explanation based on research, tested for validity against the research question.
Experiment: Trials designed to validate or invalidate the hypothesis under controlled conditions.
Independent Variable: The factor that is manipulated or tested in the experiment, compared against a control group.
Dependent Variable: The measured response or outcome resulting from changes in the independent variable.
Control Variables: Factors that could influence the experiment's outcome but are kept constant to ensure valid results.
Data: Measurements collected to compare the independent variable against the control group, guiding conclusions.
Conclusion: An analysis of the data that provides answers to the hypothesis or research question.
Theory: A thoroughly tested and widely endorsed explanation for observable phenomena, subject to revision with new evidence.

Description

Test your knowledge of the four key steps in the scientific method with these flashcards. Each card outlines a step, from making observations to analyzing data. Perfect for students and science enthusiasts alike!