Scientific Method.pdf

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1. Dr/ Abdel Moneim Saleh
HUM 109
R & A skills

2. Scientific
Method
of research

3. Scientific Method of research
It is way to solve problems, it is a tool that helps scientists and
the rest of us to solve problems and determine answers to
questions in a logical format.

It provides step-by-step, general directions to help us work
through problems.


Science Vs. Belief

Belief: is knowing something without needing evidence.

Science: requires that beliefs be continuously tested against
evidence from the real world.

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Do you have any problems to solve?
Where are My Shoes?
What should I have for lunch?
What class do I have next?
Did I do my homework for that class?
What is the cure for cancer?
Which deodorant works the longest

5. Seven steps to the scientific method:
1. Identify a problem (Ask question)

2. Research the problem (Observation)

3. Formulate a hypothesis.
4. Conduct an experiment.
5. Data analysis/Results
6. Conclusion.

7. Communicate the result

6. Flowchart of
scientific method of research
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7. Scientists develop a question about a problem.
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They need to be very specific in defining what they are
trying to explain or solve (empirically observed experiences,
i.e. from the five senses).
Gather information about the problem /question and
obtain facts and ideas from books, journals, internet,
etc.

Cite these resources.
1. Identify a problem (Ask question)

2. Research the problem (Observation)

8. Hypothesis: An explanation for an observation,
phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by
further investigation.
Once you have possible answers from your research, you need
to pick one answer that you think is most accurate.
 If your results did not support your hypothesis, don't change or
manipulate your findings to fit your original hypothesis.

Simply explain why things did not go as expected.
Hypothesis: Not Supported ???
Inventions discovered by mistake:

Penicillin (antibiotic)
Microwave Oven
3. Formulate a hypothesis.

9. Scientists conduct an experiment to test their hypothesis.

This should include a materials list and a procedure with step-by-
step directions.

Every experiment has variables!
Variables: is anything that changes or could change in an
experiment.
Variables
Independent
variable
Dependent
variable
Constant
variable
4. Conduct an experiment.

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3-Controlled variables: quantities that a scientist wants to remain
constant.
1- Independent variable: is the one that is changed by the scientist.
2-Dependent variable: what the scientist observe after changing
the independent variable
Example:

11. Observation: To look at and record what you see.
Once you have completed your experiment, look at the results,
and comment on any patterns, observations, findings. You may
include graphs, pictures, and/or recordings.

A key to experiments is observing what happens and writing it
down
Data analysis: Determine whether your data/results from the
experiment supports (or not) your hypothesis;

if not, it may be necessary to review your information /research
and revise your hypothesis.
5. Data analysis/Results

12. Conclusion: What did you find the answer to the question was?

It is OK if your hypothesis was not correct. You learned!!

Scientists share their experiments and findings with others.

Because they share their experiments and findings, scientists can
learn from each other and often use someone else’s experiences to
help them with what they are studying or doing.
6. Conclusion.
7. Communicate the result

13. Example (3): Answer the following question
using scientific method of research;
“Why is the Sky Blue”?
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Possible Answers:


Because the sky reflects blue.


Because it is made up of blue matter.


Because particles in the sky refract and scatters the blue
wavelength of light.
1- Ask a question: Why is the Sky blue?
2- Do background research: gather information using the
internet or a textbook. It may generate more questions, or give you a
possible answer.

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3- Construct a hypothesis: I think that particles in the sky
refract and scatter blue light making it appear as the sky is blue.
4- Test your hypothesis:


I will test my hypothesis by seeing if light can be separated into
different colors. This would help prove this hypothesis.


My Experiment:

1. Materials: prism (to separate light), light ray box,

2. Method: (What will I do):

i. Collect equipment and set up using the diagram
ii. Shine light into the prism
iii. Record your results

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5- Analyze your data:

From experiment you can see in the photographic evidence that
light can be separated into the 7 colors of the rainbow.
6- Conclusions:

This proves that Blue is a part of white light and that it could be
separated and scattered across the sky, making the sky look blue.
7- Report your results:

Produce a poster board, PowerPoint, Scientific Journal, Website,
Video or booklet of your experiment and findings.