Understanding the Scientific Method

Front

Scientific Method

Back

Systematic approach to research and experimentation

Front

Observation

Back

Gathering data through senses or instruments

Front

Hypothesis

Back

Testable prediction or explanation

Front

Experiment

Back

Procedure to test hypothesis

Front

Data Analysis

Back

Interpreting experimental results

Front

Conclusion

Back

Summary of findings and hypothesis evaluation

Front

Independent Variable

Back

Factor changed by the experimenter

Front

Dependent Variable

Back

Factor measured in the experiment

Front

Control Variable

Back

Factor kept constant to ensure valid results

Front

Theory

Back

Well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world