Scientific Method Quiz

What is the first step in the Scientific Method?

• Do Background Research

• Observe

• Hypothesize

• Form a Question

Answer explanation

The first step in the Scientific Method is to Observe. This involves gathering information and noticing phenomena, which leads to questions and hypotheses. Observations are crucial for forming a solid foundation for scientific inquiry.

Which of the following is a source for research?

• Your five year old brother

• Your classmate

• A textbook

Answer explanation

A textbook is a reliable source for research as it provides verified information and structured content. In contrast, a five-year-old brother or a classmate may not have the necessary knowledge or expertise.

What is a hypothesis?

• A question

• A proven fact

• An educated guess

• A random guess

Answer explanation

A hypothesis is best described as an educated guess, as it is a testable statement based on prior knowledge and observations, rather than just a question or a random guess.

What type of data consists of numbers?

• Verbal

• Descriptive

• Qualitative

• Quantitative

Answer explanation

Quantitative data consists of numbers and can be measured or counted, making it distinct from verbal, descriptive, and qualitative data, which do not primarily involve numerical values.

What is the purpose of an experiment in the Scientific Method?

• To observe a hypothesis

• To test a hypothesis

• To create a hypothesis

Answer explanation

The purpose of an experiment in the Scientific Method is to test a hypothesis. This process allows scientists to gather data and determine if the hypothesis is supported or refuted, leading to further understanding.

Which variable is changed during an experiment?

• Dependent

• Independent

Answer explanation

The independent variable is the one that is changed or manipulated during an experiment to observe its effect on the dependent variable. In contrast, constants and controls remain unchanged.

What is the role of the control variable?

• To be measured

• To stay the same

Answer explanation

The control variable is used to remain constant throughout an experiment. This ensures that any changes in the outcome can be attributed to the independent variable, making 'to stay the same' the correct choice.

What should you do after forming a question in the Scientific Method?

• Observe

• Hypothesize

• Do Background Research

• Experiment

Answer explanation

After forming a question in the Scientific Method, the next step is to do background research. This helps gather existing information and insights related to the question, which is essential for forming a hypothesis.

Which of the following is an example of qualitative data?

• Weight of 70 kg

• Heart rate of 80 beats/minute

• Temperature of 37°C

• Verbal description of heart rate

Answer explanation

Qualitative data describes qualities or characteristics. The 'verbal description of heart rate' provides a narrative or categorical insight, unlike the other options, which are numerical measurements.

What is the final step in the Scientific Method?

• Experiment

• Form a Question

• Analyze Data

• Conclusion

Answer explanation

The final step in the Scientific Method is the Conclusion. After conducting experiments and analyzing data, researchers summarize their findings and determine whether their hypothesis is supported or not.