Here are the key notes on the scientific method and skills,
drawn from the provided sources:
1. Variables
Variables are essential components in the scientific method
that influence the outcomes of an experiment. They help test
hypotheses by allowing for controlled changes and
observations. There are three types:
● Independent Variable: This is the one thing you choose
to change in an experiment. It influences the dependent
variable.
○ Example: The temperature in an experiment
observing its effect on plant growth.
● Dependent Variable: This is the change that happens
because of the independent variable. It's what you are
observing, measuring, or counting.
○ Example: The plant growth (measured in cm) that
results from different temperatures.
● Controlled (Fixed/Constant) Variables: These are all the
factors that are kept constant to ensure a fair
experiment. You want everything else to remain constant
and unchanging.
○ Examples: Same species of plants, same amount of
water, same type of soil, or same environmental
conditions. In a sugar dissolving experiment,
controlled variables include the amount of water,
stirring speed, type of container, and environmental
conditions.
2. Aim
● The aim is a statement that clearly states the purpose of
the investigation.
● It explains what is being tested and what is expected to
change.
● A well-defined aim guides the experiment and ensures
the research question is focused and measurable.
○ Example: "To determine if temperature affects the
growth of a plant".
3. Hypothesis
● A hypothesis is a testable statement that predicts the
relationship between the independent and dependent
variables in an experiment.
● It suggests a possible outcome based on prior
knowledge, establishing a cause-and-effect connection.
● It must include both independent & dependent
variables.
● It is often written in an "If..., then..." format.
○ Example: "If the temperature increases, then plant
growth will increase".
● Even if a hypothesis is proven incorrect, the experiment's
findings can still be scientifically valuable.
4. Apparatus
● The apparatus section is a detailed, point-form list of all
the tools, equipment, and materials necessary to
conduct the experiment.
● This list ensures the experiment can be accurately
replicated by others.
● It helps maintain consistency and reliability in the
experiment.
● The list should only include relevant items, specifying
quantities.
5. Method and Results
● Method: This is a detailed, step-by-step procedure
outlining how to conduct the experiment.
○ It should be written in a passive voice (like a recipe).
○ Each step must be specific, concise, and
sequential to ensure accuracy and consistency.
○ It needs to include details on how the independent
variable is changed, how the dependent variable is
measured, and how controlled variables are
maintained.
● Results: This section presents the data collected during
the experiment.
○ Results are perceived by the senses.
○ They should be systematically recorded using
tables, graphs, and diagrams to highlight trends or
patterns.
○ This section focuses only on the factual record of
observations and does not include explanations or
conclusions.
6. Ways of Presenting Results
● Tables: Used for organising numerical data in a
structured format.
○ Must have a clear and descriptive title.
○ The independent variable is typically in the first
column, and the dependent variable in subsequent
columns.
○ Units must be included in the column headings and
not repeated in the body of the table.
● Graphs: Used to visually represent trends or
relationships between variables.
○ Essential for clear communication of data.
○ Types include Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, Histograms,
and Line Graphs.
○ Rules for Graphs: Must have an underlined main
heading, the horizontal (x-axis) shows the
independent variable, and the vertical (y-axis)
shows the dependent variable. An appropriate
scale must be chosen to fit all data, and data should
be plotted clearly in pencil with labels.
● Diagrams: Used to illustrate observations, setups, or
changes over time.
○ They must be visually representative and adhere to
drawing rules for clarity and precision.
○ Rules for Drawing: Use a sharp HB pencil, no
colour, drawings must be large (at least 10 lines),
include space for labels, use continuous lines, no
sketching, must be 2D, no shading, and have an
underlined heading.
○ Rules for Labelling: Labels should be on the
right-hand side (or both sides), drawn with a ruler,
lines should not intersect, touch the structure, point to
the correct parts, and end at the same distance.
7. Reliability
● Reliability refers to the consistency of results.
● A reliable experiment produces similar results every
time it is conducted under the same conditions.
● Achieving reliability involves ensuring that all variables,
except the independent variable, are kept constant.
8. Validity
● Validity means an experiment truly measures what it is
supposed to measure.
● The results must reflect the actual impact of the
independent variable.
● Key aspects contributing to validity include:
○ Control Experiment: A setup where the independent
variable is not applied, serving as a baseline for
comparison to identify changes solely due to the
independent variable.
■ Experimental group: Receives the
independent variable (e.g., plants given
fertilizer).
■ Control group: Does not receive the
independent variable (e.g., plants given no
fertilizer).
○ Controlled Variables: All other variables must be
kept constant to prevent them from influencing the
outcome.
● A valid experiment has a control and all variables
except the independent variable are kept constant.
● An experiment that is not carefully planned may lead to
inaccurate or misleading results, affecting its validity.
9. Quantitative vs. Qualitative Data
● Quantitative Data: Data that can be measured and
recorded as numbers (e.g., height, weight, temperature,
time). It provides precise and objective results that can
be statistically analyzed.
● Qualitative Data: Data that is observed rather than
measured, usually described using words. It's useful for
descriptive observations that might not easily be
assigned a numerical value.
● A valid experiment does not include only qualitative data.
10. Conclusion
● A well-structured conclusion summarizes the findings,
links them to the hypothesis, and provides insights.
● It should include:
○ A restatement of the aim and hypothesis.
○ A summary of key findings and observed trends.
○ A comparison of results to the hypothesis, stating
whether it was supported or contradicted.
○ An explanation of the scientific reasoning behind
the results.
● The conclusion is essential for documenting and
communicating scientific investigations effectively.
● Regardless of whether an experiment proves or disproves
a hypothesis, it remains meaningful if properly designed.
