Q&A for How to Do a Science Investigatory Project

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How can I shorten the scientific method?

Bess Ruff, MA
Environmental Scientist
Bess Ruff is a Geography PhD student at Florida State University. She received her MA in Environmental Science and Management from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2016. She has conducted survey work for marine spatial planning projects in the Caribbean and provided research support as a graduate fellow for the Sustainable Fisheries Group.

Bess Ruff, MA

Environmental Scientist

Expert Answer

The scientific method is followed by scientists across the academic and professional spectrum. From high school students to lab scientists, each of the steps of the scientific method is important to the process of scientific inquiry. Each of the steps builds upon the previous step, so you don't want to shorten the process and miss a vital component.

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Question

How can I create a problem?

Bess Ruff, MA
Environmental Scientist
Bess Ruff is a Geography PhD student at Florida State University. She received her MA in Environmental Science and Management from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2016. She has conducted survey work for marine spatial planning projects in the Caribbean and provided research support as a graduate fellow for the Sustainable Fisheries Group.

Bess Ruff, MA

Environmental Scientist

Expert Answer

There are countless problems that you could design an experiment around! Think about the things you interact with in your everyday life and what questions you have about the world you experience every day.

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Question

How can I decide on a topic between physics, biology, or chemistry for a project?

Community Answer

Think which topic you'd be better at. If you think you'd do great on all three, it doesn't hurt to look at ideas online. Just don't copy any project! Use it as your inspiration to think of an even better project.

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Question

Can I investigate a question that already has an answer?

Community Answer

Yes, as you may find new data or relevant research to go along with your question/ topic.

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Question

What does control mean in an investigatory project?

Community Answer

A control variable is a variable that stays the same throughout the entire experiment.

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Question

How do I make a write-up?

Community Answer

You should do the title page first and next chapter 1 or background of the study. Next, you will present a statement of the problem, then significance of the study and then the scope and limitations. Finally, you need to present a definition of terms. This would be only chapter 1 of your write-up. You will finish up with more chapters followed by a conclusion and references.

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Question

Is it okay to copy from the internet when doing a science investigatory project?

Community Answer

You are only allowed to get data from the internet. The point of this project is to test your own theory by conducting experiments and research, not copying that already done by others. Make sure that any research you cite meets the criteria outlined in Method 1, Step 2.

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Question

Do I have to write an observation? If so, how do I do that?

Community Answer

Well that depends what you want your project to achieve. If you think you can remember everything and don't need to present it elsewhere, then no. If you may wish to look back at it in future, or show anyone else what you have done, then yes. Writing is just one method of recording, if you struggle with it, then you could make a video record with your phone, or photographs. you will still need to edit them to show steps and results and conclusions, etc.

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