PBL Plants: 8.2 Scientific Method

This playlist provides students with an overview of scientific inquiry and the six steps of the scientific method. Begin by watching the first video in its entirety. Pause the video as key elements of scientific inquiry are discussed to make sure students understand the importance of each element. Review the six steps of the scientific method by showing the next six clips in the playlist, then summarize what students have learned by showing the final clip.

Playlist Items

Title	Packages	Type	Duration	Producer
Science as Inquiry for Children		Video	21 min 12 sec
Comments: Discuss each of the following key elements with students: * Making observations * Asking questions * Gathering data * Looking for explanations * Forming conclusions * Taking notes * Communicating discoveries
1. Ask a Question		Video	23 sec
Comments: Begin by asking a question about something you observe (Who, What, Where, When, Why or How).
2. Research		Video	45 sec
Comments: Find out more about your topic using books, videos and the Internet. This will help you design a good experiment.
3. Construct a Hypothesis		Video	11 sec
Comments: A hypothesis is a tentative explanation or an educated guess. It should be simple and testable.
4. Test Your Hypothesis		Video	22 sec
Comments: Create an experiment that tests whether your hypothesis is true or false. It must be a fair test. You should change only one factor (the variable) at a time.
5. Analyze Data and Draw Conclusions		Video	16 sec
Comments: Collect measurements and data from your experiment. Record the data and analyze it to determine if your hypothesis was correct. If your hypothesis was incorrect, consider revising it and creating a new experiment.
6. Communicate Results		Video	2 min 32 sec
Comments: Publish and present what you have learned. Make sure your presentation is organized, clear and interesting.
Summary: Scientist Checklist		Video	28 sec

Please note that playlists available on HD Network depend on content that must be licensed by your district or school. To review content referenced content packages, hover over the Info icon for any title.