Scientific Method Terminology

Front

Observation

Back

Data/information collected with any of the senses (or with the help of tools/instruments)

Front

Hypothesis

Back

A statement that predicts how you believe the Independent Variable will affect the Dependent Variable

Front

Independent variable

Back

The variable being manipulated or tested

Front

Dependent Variable

Back

The measured or responding variable

Front

Experimental Group(s)

Back

The group that is being manipulated or tested in an experiment

Front

Control Group

Back

The group that is left alone so that you can compare it to the Experimental group to see if there has been any change

Front

Constants

Back

Variables that are kept the same between the Experimental & Control groups so you can have a fair experiment and make a fair comparison

Front

Conclusion/Claim

Back

Statement about the results on an investigation/experiment; based on data collected

Front

Evidence/Data

Back

Measurements made during an experiment

Front

Peer Review

Back

The process by which other scientists examine your experimental results to see if you did good science