Scientific Method

This part of the experiment serves as a basis of comparison; the one variable being tested has been omitted. 

• experimental group

• control group

• data

• variables

A possible explanation to a problem that has not yet been tested. 

• data

• theory

• hypothesis

• fact

This variable in an experiment is the one being deliberately changed by the scientist. 

• dependent variable

• independent variable

• data

• control group

What step does every scientific experiment begin with?

• hypothesis

• procedures

• question/problem

• conclusion

An experiment is performed on plants to see how different liquids affect plant growth. Each plant in the experiment is given a different liquid; water, apple juice, or milk. Each plant has the same amount of soil, sunlight, and listens to the same music. In this investigation, the independent variable is ...

• The type of plant

• The amount of sunlight

• The type of music

• The type of liquid

An experiment is performed on plants to see how different liquids affect plant growth. Each plant in the experiment is given a different liquid; water, apple juice, or milk. Each plant has the same amount of soil, sunlight, and listens to the same music. In this investigation, a possible hypothesis is ...

• Different liquids affect plant growth

• Plants grow differently if given different liquids

• Giving a plant apple juice will decrease the growth rate.

• Plants that listen to rap music grow faster.

The summary at the end of an experiment that explains the results. 

• conclusion

• procedures

• materials

• responding variable

A student wants to test the effects of types of exercise on heart rate.  What is the dependent variable?

• heart rate

• type of exercise

• amount of exercise

• time of day exercise occurs

A student wants to test the effects of types of exercise on heart rate.  What is a good hypothesis?

• Exercise keeps you from getting fat

• Heart Rate will increase with more intense exercise.

• Exercise will increase life expectancy

• It is better to exercise for long periods of time than to only exercise occasionally.

Observations made during an experiment are called:

• data

• problems

• conclusions

• questions