Steps of the Scientific Method Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the scientific method?

The scientific method involves a series of steps that are used to investigate a natural occurrence.

What is the first step in the scientific method?

Develop a question or problem that can be solved through experimentation.

What does observation and research involve?

Make observations and research your topic of interest.

What is a hypothesis?

A prediction of a possible answer to the problem or question. Signup and view all the answers

What should an experiment include?

Develop and follow a procedure, including a detailed materials list. The outcome must be measurable. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of collecting and analyzing data?

Modify the procedure if needed and confirm the results by retesting. Signup and view all the answers

What should be included in the conclusion?

A statement that accepts or rejects the hypothesis, along with recommendations for further study. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to communicate the results?

Be prepared to present the project to an audience and expect questions. Signup and view all the answers

What is an independent variable?

The independent or manipulation variable is a factor that's intentionally varied by the experimenter. Signup and view all the answers

What is a dependent variable?

A factor that may change as a result of changes made in the independent variable. Signup and view all the answers

What is a control group in a scientific experiment?

The control group serves as the standard of comparison. It may be a no-treatment group or an experiment-selected group. Signup and view all the answers

How should the control group be treated?

The control group must stay the same, except for the variable being tested. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Scientific Method Overview

The scientific method is a systematic approach for investigating natural phenomena through defined steps.

Problem and Question

Formulate a specific question or problem that can be answered through experimental investigation.

Observation and Research

Gather information and make observations related to the topic of interest to inform the experiment.

Hypothesis

Create a testable prediction that proposes a possible answer to the formulated problem or question.

Experiment

Design a detailed procedure for the experiment, including a comprehensive materials list.
Ensure that the experiment's outcomes are measurable.

Collect and Analyze Data

Perform the experiment and modify the procedure if necessary.
Confirm results through multiple retests to ensure reliability.

Conclusion

Draw conclusions that either support or reject the hypothesis based on the experiment's results.
Suggest recommendations for further research and improvements to the experimental design.

Communicate Results

Prepare to present the findings clearly to an audience and be ready to answer questions regarding the project.

Independent Variable

The independent variable is the factor intentionally manipulated by the experimenter to test its effect.

Dependent Variable

The dependent variable is the factor that may change in response to alterations in the independent variable.

Control Group

The control group serves as a standard of comparison in an experiment and does not receive the experimental treatment, ensuring any changes can be attributed to the independent variable.

In the Control Group

The control group remains constant, with all conditions identical except for the variable being tested in the experiment.
Including a control group is essential for the validity of the experimental results.

Description

This quiz covers the fundamental steps of the scientific method through interactive flashcards. Each card provides a definition for key concepts such as observation, hypothesis, and experimentation. It's perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of scientific principles.