Science in Real Life

Page 1

Science Meets Real Life

Science Meets Real Life

Jackie Hoskins

SC300

November 13, 2011

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The scientific method involves using several steps in order to reach a conclusion about a particular inquiry.   The steps are basically an investigation process.   The method is an ongoing cycle day in and day out.   Some of the steps in the scientific method occur at the same time, in a different order or even can be repeated during the experiment in order to improve the conclusion. (about.com 2011).

What steps are taken?

Typically, the scientific method involves the following steps: First, ask a question or other questions in relation to the subject or topic. The questions need to be specific in order to provide direct focus to the inquiry.   Secondly, research the topic. The research needs to be detailed in order to learn as much as possible to help with your question. Third, formulate a hypothesis. A hypothesis is a statement regarding the cause and effect of the situation surrounding your question. Fourth, Test the hypothesis. Testing involves the planning and carrying out of a procedure or set of procedures to gather data (about.com 2011). Whether we know it or not the scientific method is being used in everything we do.

Take for instance that I arrive at home after dark and after opening the door I reach for the light switch and when I flip the switch to turn the light on nothing happens. I ask myself why is the light out?   Or ask myself did I flip the wrong switch?   There are a lot of homes where wall plates have multiple switches.   Having multiple switches in your home is an indicator that the electricity is being directed to different places in the home.   In my home, I have a multiple wall plate inside my front door that has a switch to my outside security light, my living room and to the front of the house. A point of research is

to check the light and see if the bulb is burned out or there is a short....