What Is Scientific Inquiry?

Scientific inquiry is the process scientists use to ask questions, investigate, and come up with explanations about the world around us. It’s all about curiosity and using logical steps to find answers.

The Steps of the Scientific Method

Scientists follow a series of steps called the scientific method:

• Ask a Question: Think about something you’re curious about.
• Do Background Research: Gather information about your question.
• Create a Hypothesis: Make an educated guess about what you think will happen.
• Conduct an Experiment: Test your hypothesis with an experiment.
• Analyze Data: Look at your results.
• Draw Conclusions: Decide if your hypothesis was right or wrong.
• Share Results: Let others know what you learned!

Why It Matters

Scientific inquiry helps us solve problems and make discoveries in medicine, technology, and even everyday life.

Real-World Application

Scientists use the scientific method to develop vaccines, improve food safety, and create new technologies.

Fun Fact

The scientific method isn’t just for scientists—you can use it to solve mysteries in your daily life, like figuring out why your plant isn’t growing!