OCR Cambridge National
in Science
(Level 1/2)
R073 How scientists
test their ideas
The scientific method
The scientific method is the approach
scientists take to test their ideas.
To test an idea using the scientific
method you would:
- design and carry out a practical
investigation in which you will
collect data
- then analyse, interpret and
evaluate the data drawing on your
scientific knowledge and context of
the subject.
The scientific method
How would you . . .
Investigate the energy released
when fuels with different numbers of
carbon atoms are burned?
Investigate a condition that affects
the production or purification of
copper by electrolysis?
Investigate the effectiveness of
different concentrations of
antimicrobials in preventing the
growth of bacteria?
Research
Research can be done using a variety of methods:
The internet
Surveys
Books
Remember to record and reference your sources.
Planning
In the planning stage you identify how to collect
high quality, valid data, which will minimise
measurement errors.
In your plan you should consider:
Which variables are controlled or
taken into account
Which equipment and techniques
are needed to minimise error
and collect high quality, valid
and reliable data
Collect data
Primary data is produced when you carry out your
practical investigation and record your results.
Primary data could include:
Reaction times
Volume of gas or liquid produced
Rate of bacteria growth
Analyse
Once you have collected your primary data you can
analyse it.
To do this you should
process the data you have
collected.
• plot a graph to show the
results of your
investigation
• carry out a mathematical
or statistical analysis of
your results
• describe any patterns or
trends in your results.
Conclusion and evaluation
Your practical investigation should include a conclusion
which summarises the results you have gathered, and
what you think they mean.
Once you have finished your practical investigation, you
will need to evaluate both your data and the methods
you used to collect it.
• Comment on any unexpected results.
• Evaluate your results, the method you used, and
how well you managed the risks.
In this unit you will
• Be able to plan a scientific investigation
• Be able to collect scientific data
• Be able to analyse scientific information
• Be able to evaluate scientific information
• Be able to communicate scientific information
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