Junior Scientist Maker Program

Observation is paying close attention to something to get information. For example, by observing a bird, we can learn about its wings and learn how it flies. To make observations we use our five senses: seeing, hearing, touching, smelling, and sometimes taste. It is the first step of the scientific method.

When we wonder about something, we ask questions to help us understand it. Asking Questions is the second step of the scientific method. In science, we ask questions about things we don’t know the answer to but want to find out. We ask questions to help us solve problems.

We collect data to help us answer our questions and to solve problems. Data is a collection of information. We can collect data through observations, asking questions, and taking measurements. It can include facts, numbers, and measurements.

The final step of the scientific method is to communicate or share with others what we have learned. It is important for scientists to share the results of their experiments. They can write, create pictures, or speak to others. What is your favorite way to share your thoughts and ideas?

Dr. Jenna Jambeck is a scientist from the University of Georgia. She is studying plastic pollution using an app called Marine Debris Tracker and she needs your help! You can help by tracking the litter you find in your community. This data can help scientists understand the most common litter and where it is found. Click the links below to become citizen scientists in your own community, using Marine Debris Tracker.