Detecting and Testing a Pattern in Nature Strode, P. K. (2015). Hypothesis generation in biology: A science teaching challenge and potential solution. The American Biology Teacher 77:500-506. “The most common way a hypothesis is used in scientific research is as a tentative, testable, and falsifiable statement that explains some observed phenomenon in nature. We more specifically call this kind of statement an explanatory hypothesis. However, as we will see, a hypothesis can also be a statement that describes an observed pattern in nature. In this case we call the statement a generalizing hypothesis.” Explanatory hypothesis: a tentative, testable, and falsifiable statement that explains some observed phenomenon in nature. Generalizing hypothesis: a statement that describes an observed pattern in nature.

How might hypothetical thinking look in practice?

Let’s Practice! Observation of Goldenrod (Solidago sp.)

Let’s Practice! Goldenrod Gall Fly (Eurosta solidaginis)

Let’s Practice! Observation

Let’s Practice! Generalizing Hypothesis: The presence of galls on a goldenrod plant is associated with more branches on the plant. Prediction: If I randomly survey 20 goldenrod plants with galls and 20 without galls, there will be significantly more branches on the plants with galls than on the plants without galls. Explanatory Hypothesis: Tissue damage to goldenrod plants from galls or clipping may stimulate some plants to form more and longer branches because the damage disrupts plant growth hormonal control.

When are Patterns Useful?

When are Patterns Useful?

When are Patterns Useful?

When are Patterns Useful?