scientific variables

During an experiment, we test a variable. This is the thing that different, or changes, between test groups.

• True

• False

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

In our classroom experiment we place lettuce seeds in paper pots, and place them 5 inches away from a light source. We place the seeds in 2 different types of soil and give them the same amount of light. What is the variable?

• The amount of light they get

• The distance from the light

• The soil

• The paper pots

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Students want to see which types of substances dissolve in water. They collect four water bottles and fill them with luke warm water. They then add a different substance to each bottle (sand, detergent, oil, and sugar) and shake 20 times. What is the variable in this experiment?

• The substance being dissolved

• The water

• The temperature of the water

• The amount of times it is shaken

Students want to observe the effect of chicken food on egg production. Four Rhode Island chickens are given one cup of food once per day. The brands of the food are different however. They then count how many eggs are laid in one week. What is the variable in this experiment?

• The type of chicken

• The amount of food given to the chickens

• How many times they are fed in a day

• The type of chicken food

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Students want to see which mobile phone batteries last the longest. They take a Motorola, Samsung, LG, and iPhone and place a YouTube channel on full volume and full brightness for each phone. They monitor throughout the day to see which phone will die first. What is the variable in this experiment?

• The brightness

• The type of phone

• The volume

• The brightness

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-3

How many variables should be tested in a simple experiment?

• One

• Two

• Three

• As many as you want

Students want to see which liquid will evaporate the quickest. They place 8 ounces of water, orange juice, Gatorade, and saltwater in four clear plastic cups. They place the cups on a windowsill and check the record the levels daily. What is the variable in this experiment?

• The amount of liquid in the cups

• The plastic cups

• The windowsill

• The type of liquid in the cups

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1