Scientific Method- Hidden Information
Lecture outline
Pre lab reading Assignment: Starr 1.6 and 1.7
I. Scientific Method
A. Def- A systematic approach to problem solving.
Web tutorial for computer students.
http://www.sciencebuddies.org/mentoring/project_scientific_method.shtml
B. Steps
1. Observation
2. Question
3. Formulate a hypothesis
4. Experiment
a. controls
b. design to support or refute hypothesis
5. Draw conclusions
6. Theory development if sufficient body of support
II. Experimental rational
A. Each group will be given a sealed box containing a random collection of
laboratory and office supplies. They will also be given an identical empty box and a bag
containing several examples of lab and office supplies that may be contained within the
box. The students are to carry out a series of experiments to determine the contents of
their box. The exact contents will be revealed at the completion of the experimentation.
B. Tools available
1. electronic balances
2. magnets
3. sensory input
III. Assessment
A. Documentation
1. each trial must be expressed within the format of the steps in the
scientific method beginning with a hypothesis.
2. All data must be recorded for each trial
3. Conclusions may only be turned in when the group agrees unanimously
as to the contents of the box.
B. Report
1. Each student must turn in a report using the template provided.
2 The report must contain data tables generated for each trial
3. The report must contain a discussion section that addresses the use of
this type of inquiry in real examples of scientific research.