Exploring the Building Blocks of Scientific Inquiry

What is an independent variable in an experiment?

• The variable that is measured or observed.

• The variable that is kept constant throughout the experiment.

• The variable that is manipulated or changed by the researcher.

• The group that does not receive the experimental treatment.

Which of the following best describes a dependent variable?

• The outcome that the researcher is trying to explain.

• The condition that is manipulated by the researcher.

• A variable that remains unchanged throughout the experiment.

• The group that receives the experimental treatment.

What is a controlled variable?

• A variable that is allowed to change freely.

• The variable that is tested in an experiment.

• A factor that is kept the same across all conditions of the experiment.

• The variable that is measured in the experiment.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

In an experiment, what is the purpose of the experimental group?

• To remain untreated for comparison purposes.

• To be exposed to the independent variable.

• To measure the dependent variable.

• To ensure the controlled variables are constant.

What is hypothesis testing in the context of the scientific method?

• Deciding on which variables to measure.

• Choosing the experimental and control groups.

• The process of making an educated guess about the outcome of an experiment.

• The procedure of conducting an experiment to support or refute a hypothesis.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS3-4

Which statement is true about an independent variable?

• It is the variable that depends on other factors.

• It is the variable that the scientist changes to see if it affects the dependent variable.

• It is the variable that is kept the same in all trials.

• It is the variable that is used to compare against the experimental group.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

The dependent variable is best described as the variable that:

• Is manipulated by the experimenter.

• Is kept constant throughout the experiment.

• Changes in response to the independent variable.

• Is used to create the hypothesis.

What role do controlled variables play in an experiment?

• They are the focus of the research.

• They add variability to the experiment.

• They are changed by the researcher to study effects on the dependent variable.

• They are kept the same to ensure that any changes in the dependent variable are due to the independent variable.

Which group in an experiment is the one that does not receive the treatment or experimental condition?

• Experimental group

• Dependent group

• Control group

• Independent group

Why is it important to have a hypothesis before conducting an experiment?

• To ensure the experiment is conducted fairly.

• To provide a clear statement that can be tested through experimentation.

• To determine the independent variable.

• To identify the dependent variable.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2