Scientific Method Quiz

What is the difference between a hypothesis and a theory?

• A hypothesis is supported by data from many experiments, a theory is not.

• A hypothesis is an initial educated guess, a theory is a tested and supported explanation.

• A hypothesis is always correct, a theory can be proven wrong.

• A theory is an initial educated guess, a hypothesis is a tested and supported explanation.

A student is investigating how the amount of sunlight affects the height of bean plants. What is the dependent variable in this experiment?

• The type of bean plant.

• The height of the plants.

• The amount of sunlight each plant receives.

• The location of each plant.

Based on the Density Ball Experiment described in the packet, why is it important to run multiple trials changing only one factor at a time?

• To find a theory that matches the data.

• To find out how many factors can be changed at once.

• To prove that the initial prediction is always correct.

• To ensure that only one variable is being changed and studied by itself.

Which of the following best defines a control in a scientific experiment, as described in the packet?

• The initial observation that led to the experiment.

• The factor that is changed during the experiment.

• The result of the experiment that is measured and recorded.

• The factor that does not change throughout the experiment.

In the Fairly Paper scenario, Mr. Felix gives Group A a new sauce and Group B a sauce that looks the same but is just ketchup. What is the purpose of Group B?

• To serve as the comparison.

• To receive the new sauce.

• To receive the old sauce.

• To receive the same sauce as Group A.

A scientist's hypothesis: If a plant is given more fertilizer, then it will grow taller. What is the next logical step according to the scientific method?

• Draw conclusions about the hypothesis.

• Present conclusions to other scientists.

• Gather more information by observing other plants.

• Test the experimental variable.

In the Microwave Maze experiment, Patrick tested fish that are exposed to a microwave against fish that are not. The time it takes for the fish to escape the maze is recorded. What is the independent variable?

• The type of fish.

• The time it takes for the fish to escape.

• The design of the maze.

• Exposure to the microwave.

What is the primary goal of the Analyze Data and Draw Conclusions step of the scientific method?

• To decide if the hypothesis is supported or rejected.

• To predict what will happen next.

• To gather more evidence for the hypothesis.

• To make the initial prediction.

A student wants to determine if playing classical music helps students score better on math tests. Which of the following is the best control group?

• The students who do not play music.

• The students who play classical music.

• The students who play rock music.

• Giving both the music and silent group the exact same math test.

Explain the meaning of 'Draw a Conclusion' in the scientific method.

• Obtain at least one possible outcome

• Distinguish the outcome

• Explain the result