The Scientific Method

What You'll Learn

The scientific method is a systematic approach to investigating questions. It involves making observations, forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.

Key Words

hypothesis
variable
control

Materials Needed

pennies
plastic wrap
cardboard

Safety First

Do not mix unknown chemicals together.
Tie back long hair before starting the experiment.
Protect your work surface with newspaper or plastic.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read and learn: The scientific method is a systematic approach to investigating questions. It involves making observations, forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.

Step 2 — Do

Gather your materials and set up your workspace.

Step 3 — Observe

Observe what happens and describe it in detail.

Step 4 — Record

Record your observations in your science journal.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is a scientific model?