Components of Scientific Investigation

1. formulate a specific question or problem to a testable form

2. formulate a hypothesis (the statement that gives a tentative answer or solution to the
question; a possible explanation that will be proven or disproven)
3. select and justify a procedure to be used in answering the specific question
4. identify the dependent and independent variables in the investigation

The dependent variable is the factor or condition that is

 measured or responding in an experiment
 the change or result that occurs due to the independent variable
 the “what will happen” in an experiment

The independent variable is the factor or condition that is

 changed in an experiment directly caused by the experimenter
 manipulated in the experiment
 the “what you do” in the experiment

5. carry out the procedure that includes a fair test, which includes identifying the control
variables (factors that are kept the same) and doing repeated trials to increase accuracy and
reliability.

6. make observations that are relevant to the specific question

7. make measurements using appropriate devices and units
8. record and report all observations and data
9. interpret patterns from the data gathered
10. infer and explain relationships from the data; and
11. draw a conclusion from the results obtained, including a statement to support or reject the
hypothesis.