Scientific Method Examples

The classic scientific method has historically been presented as a seven step sequential process in the world of science. As science has evolved, we now know it is more cyclical than linear. This means that as an experiment is being performed following the steps of a scientific method, we can modify the setup after a set of results and do the experiment again. This is a much better representation of what occurs during the process of science.

Steps of the scientific method:

1. An observation is made.

2. A problem is defined or a question is asked.

3. A hypothesis is proposed.

4. A controlled experiment is set up.

5. Data is collected and analyzed.

6. Conclusions are made.

7. Process is repeated to verify results.

1. Raspberries did not grow well this year.

2. Why did the raspberries not grow well this year?

3. The raspberries did not grow well because we did not get much rain.

4. Raspberry plants are placed in moderately lit areas all receiving the same amount of light each day. Each plant will receive different amount of water. The size of the berries will be recorded daily once the plants begin to produce berries.

5. The raspberry plants receiving 1 cup of water daily grew to 1/2 " in diameter and those receiving two cups of water grew to 3/4 " in diameter.

6. The raspberry plants receiving the most water grew the biggest. Therefore, the hypothesis is supported that this year's raspberries did not get enough rain.

7. Repeat experiment.