Scientific Method and Variables

The variable that is being measured or observed is called the _______________. Hint: this is the variable that is the result or effect

• independent variable

• dependent variable

• control variable

If I floss more, then I will have fewer cavities. What is the independent variable?

• Number of cavities

• Amount of flossing

• Type of floss used

• Amount of brushing

Researchers are developing a new fertilizer designed to improve the growth of endangered Hawaiian plants. The fertilizer was applied to one hundred plants in a greenhouse. The temperature, humidity and amount of water were kept constant. Which is best for the researchers to do next?

• A compare plants that received fertilizer plants that received none

• B begin selling the fertilizer to gardeners living in hot, dry climates

• C change the conditions in the greenhouse and retest the fertilizer

• D test the fertilizer on plants that are adapted to cooler climates

The independent variable is the ONE thing you _____.

• change on purpose
• control or keep constant
• measure

What is a constant/control in an experiment?

• Things that do not change in a experiment. It's the variable that stays the same. You can have many variables stay the same.

• It's the variables that the scientist changes in the experiment

• It's the variables that are being measured in an experiment

What is the last step of scientific method?

• hypothesis

• observe

• communicate

• question

Information you obtain through your senses, such as touch, sound and sight.

• observation
• hypothesis
• question
• conclusion

A testable prediction about a scientific investigation is a(n)

• Question
• Observation
• Hypothesis
• Experiment

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

• conclusion
• procedures
• materials
• responding variable

If I study for my scientific method test, then I will have a better test score. What is the dependent variable?

• Scientific Method
• Studying
• Independent variable
• Test score