Scientific Method Case Study: Resolving a Lawn Problem

RUNNING HEAD: SCIENTIFIC METHOD CASE STUDY

Scientific Method Case Study: Resolving a Lawn Problem

Sharon Webster

University of Phoenix

September 11, 2006

SCI/256

Instructor: Harish Rekapally, MS

Scientific Method Case Study: Resolving a Lawn Problem

Introduction

The scenario for this case study is that you notice that the grass around my house is brown, short, and dead. The grass around my neighbor’s house is green, tall, and alive. Utilizing my understanding of the Scientific Method, my intent is to explain what the problem is to develop a hypothesis. After developing the hypothesis I will then design and perform an experiment to test my hypothesis; analyze my data and reach conclusions regarding my hypothesis. I will discuss various ideas regarding watering and fertilizing methods and the type of environment required that will help produce healthy growth in my yard.

The Scientific Method

Traditionally, there is a series of steps used by all scientists to study natural occurrences. Some problems lend themselves to solution by designing experiments; others are solved by detailed observation of processes or structures. The scientific method is an objective process that helps ensure accurate observation. Scientific Method is defined as a system (step by step process) of thought and procedure that reflects how scientists define and study a problem. (1)

There are several steps used in the Scientific Method:

1. Recognize a question or a problem. State the problem as a question.

2. Develop a hypothesis. A hypothesis is defined as a tentative proposition suggested as a solution to a problem; a statement of the researcher’s expectations about the relationship among the variables of the study. Basically it is a prediction about what will happen.

3. Design and perform an experiment to test your hypothesis. Plan how you will test your hypothesis.

4. Analyze the data and reach conclusions about your hypothesis. Summarize your findings.

5. Share knowledge with the scientific community. (1)

The Problem (First Step)

The first step of the Scientific Method is to recognize a question or problem. The problem mentioned in the introduction of this paper is that you notice that the grass around my house is brown, short, and dead. My neighbor’s grass is green, tall, and alive. The question is how can I make my grass alive and lush like my neighbor’s? What are some of the factors that are affecting the growth of my lawn? What are some of the methods that my neighbor is using to have the type of growth to their lawn as opposed to my methods?

So, let’s say you want a perfect lawn- one that looks like your neighbor’s or a lawn that looks like a golf course- a nice green carpet surrounding your house. Is this possible? It is not only possible, it’s really not that complicated, at least in most parts of the world. I know that my neighbor uses a different irrigation system and also has a gardener who maintains their lawn. I do not have the luxury of a gardener, therefore, I have to find my own solution to my problem with the help of some research and