1. Scientific Method Study Guide
Answers

2. 1. What is the scientific method?
The scientific method is a method for acquiring knowledge scientifically.

3. 2. What is one way we will never observe in science?
We will never observe in science by tasting because some solutions may be toxic. If we are doing an edible lab, Ms. Miller will tell us when we can eat the materials.

4. 3. What are two requirements for a hypothesis?
Two requirements for forming a hypothesis are that the hypothesis must be testable, and the hypothesis must be based on observations.

5. 4. What is the first step of the scientific method?
The first step of the scientific method is observation. You must notice something, or observe, to form a testable hypothesis.

6. 5. Describe what an independent variable is.
An independent variable is the variable that the tester manipulates. It is what you control/change during the experiment.

7. 6. Describe a dependent variable.
The dependent variable is what changes because of what your controlling. The dependent variable will change after you’ve manipulated your independent variable.

8. 7. Why is a control or constant in an experiment important?
A control or constant in an experiment is important because it will minimize the errors in an experiment. Errors occur when too much is changing in an experiment and there is nothing that is constantly the same.

9. 8. Why is it important to write a conclusion at the end of an experiment?
It is important to write a conclusion at the end of an experiment so you can reflect on what you did, and so you know the results so you don’t repeat the same experiment again.

10. 9. What type of line graph is the best representation for showing a change in something over time?
A line graph is the best representation for showing a change in something over time because it shows one continual line.

11. 10. What type of graph is best for showing parts of a whole?
A pie graph is best for showing parts of a whole. A pie graph does not show any change over time.

12. 11. When would you use a bar graph?
Bar graphs are used to compare things between different groups or to track changes over time. However, when trying to measure change over time, bar graphs are best when the changes are larger.

13. 12. When would you use a scatter plot?
A scatter plot is best used when you have large amounts of data or when you are experimenting if one event affects another. (example- how much studying affects your grades).

14. 13. Why is a title important on a graph?
A title is important on a graph because it lets your reader know exactly what your graph is about.

15. 14. What axis does the independent variable go on?
The independent variable goes on the X axis.

16. 15. What is a best fit line and what type of graph do you see them on?
A best fit line is a line that is used on scatter plots where there are many points. The best fit line is a straight line that runs through as many points as possible.

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