Scientific Method
Section 1-3
Biology
Common Steps in Science
1. Collecting Observations
Quantitative observations involve
numbers and measurement
Qualitative observations include color,
texture, shape, state
2. Asking questions
Usually called the Problem or Purpose for the experiment
3. Forming Hypothesis and making Predictions
If, then statements used. Based on research and prior experimentation
More steps
4. Experimentation
Controlled Experiments have one variable called the
independent variable that is varied between the control and
experimental groups
the dependant variable is what is measured to see if change
occurred
5. Drawing conclusions
Hypothesis may be supported or rejected based on analysis of
the data collected.
Often further testing is needed.
6.Theory
Work is published for peer review. Work verified by many
scientists,
A collection of hypothesis that have much evidence to support
them after repeated testing becomes scientific theory
Theories
The Cell Theory, The Theory of Evolution, Plate
Tectonics Theory, The Big Bang Theory The Germ
Theory
Do not lead to laws,
Laws are rules of
nature:
Change,
Are revised with
new evidence, new
Law of gravitational
technologies
attraction,
Sometimes totally
Law of Conservation
rejected
of Mass
Must be useful for
predicting the
outcome of future
experiments,
Are supported by
large bodies of
evidence