Scientific Inquiry

"Scientific inquiry refers to the diverse ways in which scientists study the natural world and propose explanations based on the evidence derived from their work.

We shall take a closer look at the practices involved and the terminology you will need to understand before you start a science project.

Hypothesis When you have a QUESTION, you can generate a HYPOTHESIS. A hypothesis is a prediction the experimenter makes about the outcome of the experiment.

Variables Variables: A factor in an experiment or scientific test that tends to vary, or take on different values, while other elements or conditions remain constant.

Independent Variable The independent variable, or manipulated variable, is a factor that the experimenter intentionally changes.

Dependent Variable The dependent variable, or responding variable, is the factor that may or may not change due to manipulation. (The dependent variable is always the response or reaction to the independent variable).

How to Form a Hypothesis Using Variables If…. Independent variable Then…dependent variable Example: Independent Variable: I feed my cat a lot Dependent Variable: she will get fat *Remember….try to use INCREASE and DECREASE in your hypothesis! IF I increase the amount of food I give my cat, THEN she will increase her weight.

Do you know the difference between independent and dependent variables now?

(For example, environmental conditions). Controlled Variable In a scientific experiment, a controlled variable is/are the variables that are not being studied that are held constant so they do not influence the experimental outcome. (For example, environmental conditions).

Can you think of some controlled variables for an experiment?

Qualitative Measurement This is describable. (Example: how something looks, feels, smells, tastes, sounds, etc.)

Quantitative Measurement This is measurable. Examples: degrees, feet, numbers

Activity: A Variable Way to Practice Variables Let’s Practice! Activity: A Variable Way to Practice Variables