Part 3-Applying the Scientific Method
3.1 Making Observations
The first step of the scientific method is simply to make observations. When it comes to studying spiders, this can be
done in many places: in the field, in the lab, or even from photographs on the internet. Here we ask you to make some
observations about the spiders shown in the photographs in Figure 3 (above).
In Figure 3, what do you notice about the diversity of color patterns that you see? Record anything you notice that you
think is particularly interesting. For example, this could include differences between male and female colors, where
specific colors are located on the spiders' bodies (e.g., face, legs, abdomens, etc.), how the spiders' colors compare to
the backgrounds on which they are resting, or any other interesting things that capture your attention. Observation
is a critical piece of the scientific method, so take at least five minutes to simply observe and note at least ten observa-
tions. (Note that many biologists spend years observing animals in both the field and lab over the course of their
and these observations lead them to new questions and ideas).
Note your observations here: