Research a scientist

Scientists are curious people who ask questions about the world and use evidence to find answers. They follow the scientific method — a step-by-step process for investigating questions. In this project lesson you will learn what scientists do, meet four famous scientists, and practice using scientific vocabulary.

The Scientific Method

1. Observation — notice something interesting in the world and gather information using your senses or instruments.
2. Question — ask a specific question about what you observed: "What? Why? How?"
3. Hypothesis — make an educated prediction that can be tested: "If... then... because..."
4. Experiment — design and carry out a fair test to check your hypothesis.
5. Results — collect and record data from the experiment using tables, graphs, or notes.
6. Conclusion — analyze the results and decide whether the evidence supports or refutes the hypothesis.

Key Scientific Vocabulary

• Hypothesis — a testable prediction made before an experiment.
• Observation — using senses or tools to notice and record what is happening.
• Experiment — a controlled test designed to answer a question.
• Evidence — data and facts collected during an experiment.
• Conclusion — the decision drawn from evidence after an experiment.
• Theory — a well-tested explanation supported by a large body of evidence (e.g. the theory of evolution).

Famous Scientists and Their Discoveries

• Marie Curie (1867-1934) — pioneered research into radioactivity. She discovered two new elements, polonium and radium, and was the first person to win two Nobel Prizes.
• Charles Darwin (1809-1882) — developed the theory of evolution by natural selection. He observed that organisms with useful traits survive and reproduce more successfully, passing those traits on.
• Isaac Newton (1643-1727) — described the laws of gravity and motion. He showed that the same force that makes an apple fall also keeps planets in orbit.
• Jane Goodall (b. 1934) — revolutionized our understanding of animal behavior through decades of observing chimpanzees in the wild, showing they use tools and have complex social lives.

How to Research and Present Scientific Findings

1. Choose a scientist or topic and write down what you already know.
2. Use books, encyclopaedias, and trusted websites to gather information.
3. Take notes in your own words — do not copy sentences directly.
4. Organize your notes into sections: life, discoveries, impact.
5. Create a poster, report, or presentation that clearly communicates your findings.
6. Include diagrams, timelines, or illustrations to make your presentation engaging.