The scientific method is a four-step process.
1. Formulating the hypothesis
Have the children choose a problem or an idea they would like to explore. Often the problem starts off with a question. A hypothesis is generally in the form of a statement, rather than a question, so once you have your hypothetical question, work with your students to change their question into a statement.
2. Developing the procedure
Have the children describe how they are planning to do the experiments. List all the materials you will need. Then list everything you will do. Number each step. Explain to the children that procedures should be written in such a way that others would be able to repeat your experiment just by reading your procedures.
3. Data Collection
During the procedure, data is collected through experimentation, later the data is analyzed, and conclusions are drawn.
As the children perform the steps described in the procedure, they will be recording their observations. This is their data.
4. Analysis
Have students look carefully at the data and decide what it says about their hypothesis. Does the data show that your hypotheses is accurate or does is prove your original hypotheses to be incorrect? You may decide at this point that you need to revise your hypothesis and think about further experiments or procedures. (http://www.oakview.fcps.edu/~glazewsk/96-97/scientist/index.html)