The Scientific Method

• Science's essence lies in unravelling the physical world through inquiry and investigation.
• Knowledge is gained by forming relevant questions and seeking answers.
• The scientific method uses a structured approach to address and solve problems.
• It involves asking questions and systematically searching for answers.

Steps in the Scientific Method

• The scientific method is an investigative process that identifies problems.
• It suggests explanations that are then tested by conducting experiments.

Observation

• Observation is the starting point of the scientific method.
• Observation is important when it leads to asking "Why?".
• Observations can be direct (using senses like sight and hearing).
• Indirect observation involves equipment like microscopes and thermometers.
• Accurate and recorded observations are the basis for all factual data relating to a problem.

Hypothesis

• A hypothesis accounts for observed facts.
• It leads to predictions of new information.
• Hypothesis is an educated guess based on observations

Experimentation

• Experiments either support or contradict the hypothesis.
• Methods of experimentation are explained later on.

Collection and Interpretation of Data

• Data collected during experiments is recorded and analyzed.

Conclusion

• Conclusions are the most valuable part of an experiment.
• Experimental data is interpreted to reach a conclusion or result.

Relating the Conclusion to Existing Knowledge

• Conclusions should align with existing knowledge on the topic.

Hypothesis Outcomes

• The hypothesis is supported if the results agree fully.
• The hypothesis is changed if the results agree only partly.
• The hypothesis is rejected if the results contradict it.
• Conclusions often lead to further experiments.