Scientific Method Vocabulary

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Hypothesis

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A tentative, testable explanation; An educated guess or prediction about what will happen in an experiment. It follows a set pattern, answers the question stated in the purpose, is brief and to the point, and is worded so it can be tested. It identifies the independent and dependent variables.

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Independent Variable

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The factor in the experiment that is changed by the scientist.

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Dependent Variable

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The factor that is tested and measured during the experiment.

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Constant/Controlled Variable

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A factor that remains fixed during an experiment.

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Procedure

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A step-by-step set of directions for testing the hypothesis.

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Materials

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A list of items needed to conduct the experiment, listed in the order they are to be used.

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Experiment

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A test or procedure performed in a controlled setting.

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Experimental Group

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This group includes the part or parts of the experiment that are changed and tested.

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Control Group

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This group includes the part or parts of the experiment that are left unchanged.

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Data

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A record of the results of an experiment.