The Scientific Process

Scientific progress is made by asking meaningful questions and conducting careful investigations. Develop your own questions and perform investigations. LAUSD Standard #7:7.

 

In defining a problem make observations while watching TV, reading an article, playing a video game, etc. This sometimes helps in the identification and choosing of your project question.

 

Also helpful is to keep a list of your observations and think about problems that occur in those areas and problems you hear other people complain about.

 

Once you have defined the problem for investigation, you will need to:

1. Select and use appropriate tools and technology (including calculators, computers, balances, spring scales, microscopes, and binoculars) to perform tests, collect data, and display data. (LAUSD Standard)
2. Use a variety of print and electronic resources (including the World Wide Web) to collect information and evidence as part of a research project. (LAUSD Standard)
3. Communicate the logical connection among hypotheses, science concepts, tests conducted, data collected, and conclusions drawn from the scientific evidence. (LAUSD Standard)
4. Construct scale models, maps, and appropriately labeled diagrams to communicate scientific knowledge (e.g., motion of Earth’s plates and cell structure). (LAUSD Standard)
5. Communicate the steps and results from an investigation in written reports and oral presentations. (LAUSD Standard)