Scientific Method Vocabulary

a method of procedure that has characterized natural science since the 17th century, consisting in systematic observation, measurement, and experiment, and the formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses.

reasonable guess that can be tested and is based on what is known and what is observed.

receiving knowledge of the outside world through our senses, or recording information using scientific tools and instruments.

to draw a conclusion based on an observation.

variable that is changed in an experiment.

variable that changes as a result of a change in the independent variable.

variable that is not changed on the experiment.

an experiment or observation designed to minimize the effects of variables other than the independent variable.

the process of breaking down data into various parts to learn what they do and how they relate to one another.

information gathered during an investigation; recorded in the form of descriptions, tables, graphs, or drawings.