Steps of the Scientific Method: Conducting a Small Study

Example of a Simple Scientific Study

For this assignment, you will conduct a small study in which you will implement the steps of the scientific method. You will follow the steps of the scientific method listed in Chapter 1 of the textbook to complete your study. You may pick any topic that you want. While you are actually conducting the scientific study, you are not doing a literature review of information. You will collect your own data, analyze your data, and draw conclusions. 

The following is an example of simple scientific study. You may not use this as your assignment. 

Observation: There are different colors of candies in your candy packet.

Hypothesis: There are more blue candies than red candies.

Data collection: Record the number of each candy color.

Analysis: Analyze your data and draw conclusions.

Other topics could be different types of commercials during specific programs or what brand of macaroni and cheese your family likes.

The materials you will use will vary depending upon the topic. You will have to create a data table and a graph. More information on how to conduct these can be found in the suggested unit resources for Unit Directions:

Include the data tables and graphs within one Word document as well as your responses to the following questions: 

Include the following: 

1. What is your observation?

2. What are the variables and control?

3. What is your question?

4. What is your hypothesis or hypotheses?

5. In at least 75 words, describe how you will conduct your experiment to test your hypothesis. Make sure you include specific information.

6. Collect your data, and include a data table.

7. Include a graph of your data.

8. In at least 100 words, analyze your data and draw conclusions.

Your homework must be at least one page in length; however, the exact length will depend on any charts of graphs used. APA is not a requirement for this assignment.