The Scientific Method

The Scientific Method

Step 1: Ask a Question

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Step 3: Hypothesis

Step 4: Test Your Hypothesis with an Experiment

What do you want to know? Is it something you can test? Measure? When you start asking questions think about what, when where, why, which, who and how.

Step 2: Background Research

Once you've drawn your conclusion, you can present what you've found to other students and scientists. Who knows, you may have found something no one else has!

Once you have your question, take some time to research it at the library or online. This will save you time from making the same mistakes as others as well as helping you form your hypothesis.

A hypothesis is an educated guess from your original question. A great format is:"If _____[I do this] _____, then _____[this]_____ will happen."

Step 5: Analyze Your Data and Draw a Conclusion

Is your hypothesis correct? Conduct an experiment in which only one thing changes. Control for everything else. Repeat your experiment to make sure the first results weren't an accident.

After your experiment, take a look at all your measurements and observations. Do they support your hypothesis? If not, it's time to go back to the drawing board!

Step 6:Communicate Your Results