This PowerPoint Outlines the Steps
of Scientific Investigation
Make an Observation & Ask a Question
Ask a question that you
can answer by
performing an
experiment
Do ResearchLearn as much as
you can about the research
topic.Research may be
needed before and after you
decide what to do in your
experiment.
Form a HypothesisSuggest an idea that can
be tested by an experiment
Hypothesis
An idea that can be
tested by experiment
or observation.
Design an Experiment• Decide what
steps you need to test your hypothesis.
• Figure out what equipment you need.
• Create a model if necessary.
• Identify the variable for your experiment.
Variable
A condition that is
changed in order to find
out the effect of that
change.
Perform the Experiment
Gather DataRecord your
observations. This may include
taking measurements or making drawings, tables, graphs, or charts.
Analyze Data & Draw Conclusions
Examine data to see if the hypothesis is supported. Create a model that explains your results.
Communicate Results
Share results with others and get feedback.
Identify Questions for Further Investigation
Can your experiment
be improved? Does it lead you to ask
more questions?