The scientific method


Scientists generally conduct investigations in a similar way. This method is referred to as the scientific method. It is important to understand the purpose of the following features of the scientific method:


Identify a problem and formulate an investigative question based on an observation


Generate a hypothesis


Design a controlled experiment (Identify the independent, dependent and control variables)


Perform the experiment and collect data


Process, analyse and interpret data


Reach a conclusion


Data supports hypothesis


Data does not support hypothesis


Accept hypothesis Reject hypothesis


Repeat experiment twice to confirm results


Generate new hypothesis; revise and adapt procedure


8 The scientific method


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