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2. THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD

Talking book

Scientific knowledge involves a specific language and its own method of investigation called the scientific method.

Scientific method steps

Example

1. Question

As scientists observe nature they ask themselves a series of questions.

In the past scientists thought that living things could come from non-living things, like air or water. Others did not think this was possible.

2. Hypothesis

A hypothesis is a provisional answer to the question proposed.

The Italian doctor Francesco Redi was convinced that living things could not come from non-living things.

3. Experiment

Experiments are done under controlled conditions to check if the hypothesis formulated is correct. Experiment design is the most complex and creative step of the scientific method.

In 1668, in order to prove this hypothesis, Redi completed the following experiment: he put raw meat in three glass jars: one covered with cork, one with material, and the third one uncovered.

4. Analysis of results and confirmation of hypothesis

Analysis is the study of the results of the experiment to prove whether the hypothesis is true or false.

After three weeks he proved that there were maggots only in the open jar, in the one which flies could enter and lay eggs. He therefore proved that maggots did not come from meat or air, but from the flies.

When a hypothesis is not corroborated by the results of the experiment, a new hypothesis has to be formulated and a new set of experiments to prove whether it is true or not.

Scientific laws are made from the hypotheses that have been proved. For example, Newton's first law of movement says that every object will stay at rest or will continue in motion unless a force is applied to it.

A collection of scientific laws that explain various natural phenomena form a theory. Scientific theories allow us to make predictions about natural phenomena.

Key concepts

The scientific method establishes rules and scientific theories to explain natural phenomenon.

Weblink 2: The scientific method

Activity 3
Following the steps of the scientific method, test the following hypothesis:

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2. THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD

Activity 3