"The notion that there is a single scientific method of observation, hypothesis, deduction, and conclusion—a myth perpetuated to this day by many textbooks—is fundamentally wrong. Scientists do use deductive reasoning, but they also search for patterns, classify different objects, make generalizations from repeated observations, and engage in a process of making inferences as to what might be the best explanation. Thus the picture of scientific reasoning is richer, more complex, and more diverse than the image of a linear and unitary scientific method would suggest."— NRC Framework, p. 78

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The lessons that follow provide support for many of the eight practices of science and engineering, including questioning, planning investigations, communicating results and more.  Care should be taken to emphasize the specific skills taught in these lessons, rather than perpetuate the idea that scientific discovery occurs as a fixed series of steps.  The handout link includes both  shorter and longer versions, which can be used based on time and ability level.