The Scientific Process involves basic steps that

scientists follow in uncovering facts

and solving scientific problems

We will take a closer look at

these steps and the terminology you will need to

understand before you start a

science project.

Ask a Question

Form a Hypothesis

Design and Carry out an Experiment

Record and Analyze Data

Draw Conclusions

Communicate Findings

Further Inquiry

Steps of the Scientific Process

1. Ask a QuestionAsk a Question: Develop a question or problem that can

be solved through experimentation. This is called

a testable question.

Steps of the Scientific Process

2. Form a HypothesisForm a Hypothesis: Predict a possible answer to the

problem or question. This is called an educated guess.

Example: If soil temperatures rise, then plant growth will

increase.

Do you remember the Do you remember the next step?next step?

Steps of the Scientific Process

3. Design and Carry out the ExperimentExperiment: Develop and

follow a sequential list of steps called a procedure.

Include a detailed materials list.

The outcome must be measurable.(think math related)

Steps of the Scientific Process

4. Record and Analyze DataRecord and Analyze Data: Record what happened or

changed during the experiment.

Include tables, graphs, charts, and/or photographs.

Steps of the Scientific Process

5. Draw ConclusionsDraw Conclusions: Include a statement that accepts or rejects the hypothesis. (My data does or doesn’t support my hypothesis)

Restates results and may make recommendations for further

study and possible improvements to the procedure.

Steps of the Scientific Process

6. Communicate the ResultsCommunicate the Results: Share your findings with others: peers, parents,

community

Steps of the Scientific Process

7. Further InquiryFurther Inquiry:

Perform more experiments of a similar nature

Think you can name all Think you can name all seven steps?seven steps?

Ask a QuestionAsk a QuestionFormulate a HypothesisFormulate a HypothesisExperimentExperimentCollect and Analyze DataCollect and Analyze DataConclusionConclusionCommunicate the ResultsCommunicate the ResultsFurther InquiryFurther Inquiry