Hmmm… I wonder…
Did you know that when you are curious and ask questions, you’re acting like a scientist?
Yup! It’s true!
Scientists are curious and are always asking questions like “why?” “what would happen if…?” and more!
When a scientist works to find the answer to their question, they use the Scientific Method! You can use the scientific method to find answers to your questions, too! Here’s how:
Step 1.
The first thing you do is ask a question about the topic you want to know more about.
Step 2.
The next step is research. In this step, you think about the things that you already know about the topic. You can even make a list of things that you know.
Step 3.
The third step is to create a hypothesis. What’s a hypothesis? It’s a science word that means your guess. Using what you already know about the topic, guess the answer to your original question. Don’t worry if you’re right or wrong at this point! You’re just getting started — we have four more steps to go!
Step 4.
In the fourth step, you need to make a plan. How will you test your hypothesis? Think of an experiment that will prove or disprove your hypothesis. Write it out in step by step actions. Include variables (those are the things that will change) and a control (that is the thing that will stay the same) in your experiment plan.
Step 5.
The fifth step is sometimes the most fun… this is when you get to EXPERIMENT! Do the experiment you planned in step four a few times. This shows that your results happen more than once. This means the experiment and the results are reliable and valid.
Step 6.
The sixth step is often done as you’re finishing your experiment. This step is when you collect and record your data. Data is another word for information. When you write down what happens in your experiment, you are recording your data!
Step 7.
The seventh and final step of the scientific method is to draw conclusions. This drawing isn’t the same as using pencils or crayons! The phrase “draw conclusions” means to decide what you believe after seeing and thinking about the information you have. Was your hypothesis correct? Share what you discovered by writing it down or drawing a picture of your results.
But wait… what happens if your experiment shows that your hypothesis was wrong?
