Steps in Scientific

investigation
Identifying the problem
Forming the hypothesis
Planning an experiment
Carrying out the experiment
Analyzing and interpreting data
Making a conclusion
Writing a report on the experiment
Controlling the variables
IDENTIFYING THE PROBLEM

1. Determine what we want to find out
2. To do so we need to observe things or happening
carefully to obtain information. Based on our observation,
we then ask questions about the things or happening

EXAMPLE:
Why does a rat have fur?
FORMING A HYPOTHESIS

1. To make a smart guess to explain the problem
2. The hypothesis needs to be tested based on the evidence
collected

EXAMPLE:
The rat needs fur to control its body temperature
PLANNING AN EXPERIMENT
1. This section involves:
i. Identifying the variables involved. A variable is a
conditioning that influences the results of the experiment.
ii. Determining the materials and apparatus required.
iii. Determining the procedures to carry out the experiment,
methods f collecting and analysing data.
EXAMPLE:
Choose three rats of the same species and size.
a) One rat had its fur shaved off
b) The second rat had its body covered with more layers of fur and was
then kept at room temperature
c) The third rat was left untreated and acted as a control to make
comparisons

CONTROLLING THE VARIABLES

1. The variable that are identified are variables that are:
i. kept constant variables
ii. Manipulated variables
iii. Responds variables
EXAMPLE:
i. Kept constant variable same species of rat, size of rat
ii. Manipulated variable thickness of fur of rat
iii. Responds variable response of rat

CARRYING OUT THE EXPERIMENT
1. This section involves:
i. collecting data through observations and measurements. All these must be
done systematically, accurately, objectively and honestly.
EXAMPLE:
i. The investigation was carried out as planned. The observations and data were
recorded, analysed and interpreted.
ii. The results can be recorded in table form




Results of experiment to determine why rats have fur


The condition of the fur and temperature Observation
Fur shaved Cold and shivering
Covered with more layers of fur and
kept at room temperature
Feels very hot
Controlled Normal behavior
ANALYSING AND INTERPRETING DATA

1. Explaining the collected data in an objective and logical
manner
2. Giving an explanation about the pattern or relationship
based on the data collected
MAKING A CONCLUSION

1. State whether the hypothesis is true
2. A conclusion should be made based on the data and not
influenced by any unfair opinion
EXAMPLE:
i. Rats need fur to control body temperature
ii. The hypothesis is supported and accepted

WRITING A REPORT ON THE EXPERIMENT
1. Title
2. Aim
3. Problem statement
4. Hypothesis
5. Variable that: i. is kept constant
ii. Is manipulated
iii. Responds
6. Material / apparatus
7. Procedures
8. Results / observation
9. Analysis
10. Conclusion
11. Discussion