Scientific Method - Day 1

​Scientific Method

By RiChiella Johnson

​Day 1: Observation & Question

​Objective: To recognize that all scientific inquiry starts with careful observation and leads to a testable question.

​The Big Idea: Before you can solve a problem, you have to notice that it exists. Think like a detective: look, listen, and pay close attention to your surroundings.

Your Mission

​1. Read

Think about the difference between an observation (something you can see, hear, or touch) and an inference (a conclusion based on what you observed).

​2. Practice

Pick one thing in your life that's been on your mind. Maybe your car makes a new sound, your dog is acting differently, or your computer is slow. On the next slide write down at least three pure observations about.

Open Ended

Write down at least three pure observations about something you observed.

Example:

Observations: "My favorite houseplant has yellow leaves. It's normally green. The pot feels very wet to the touch."

​3. Formulate a Question

Based on your observations, on the next slide write down one clear, specific question that you can investigate. Make sure it's a question you can actually try to answer.

Open Ended

Write your question based on your observation

Example:

Question: Why are my houseplants leaves turning yellow?