Variables
What is the variable that the scientist changes on purpose?
Independent variable
What type of data uses numbers and measurements?
Quantitative data
What is a testable prediction called?
Hypothesis
What information is used to support a scientific claim?
Evidence
Information directly gathered using your senses or tools is called what?
Observation
What is the variable that is measured during an experiment?
Dependent variable
What type of data describes color, smell, texture, or appearance?
Qualitative data
Why should scientists conduct repeated trials?
To increase reliability and determine whether results are consistent.
Which phrase should scientists use?
A. “The experiment proved my hypothesis.”
B. “The results support my hypothesis.”
B — The results support my hypothesis.
A logical explanation based on observations and prior knowledge is called what?
Inference
What are the factors that are kept the same during an experiment?
Controlled variables / constants
“The plant grew 14.5 cm.” Is this qualitative or quantitative?
Quantitative
What is wrong with this experiment? Brand A paper towel is tested using a 5 cm piece and Brand B using a 20 cm piece.
The paper towel sizes are not kept the same.
If the results do not match the prediction, what should a scientist say?
The results fail to support the hypothesis.
“The plant's leaves are yellow.” Observation or inference?
Observation
A student changes the amount of sunlight and measures plant growth. What is the independent variable?
Amount of sunlight
“The liquid became cloudy.” Is this qualitative or quantitative?
Qualitative
How many variables should scientists intentionally change in a fair experiment?
One
Why should scientists avoid saying that an experiment “proved” a hypothesis?
Scientific conclusions are based on evidence and may change with new evidence; one experiment does not conclusively prove a claim.
“The plant may be unhealthy because its leaves are yellow.” Observation or inference?
Inference
A student changes water temperature and measures dissolving time. Name one variable that should be controlled.
Amount of water, amount/type of substance, container, stirring method, etc.
Which value is the outlier? 12 cm, 11.8 cm, 12.2 cm, 35 cm, 12.1 cm
35 cm
Put these in a logical order: Conclusion, Question, Data, Hypothesis, Procedure
Question → Hypothesis → Procedure → Data → Conclusion
Hypothesis: If ramp height increases, then the toy car will travel farther. Do the results support or fail to support the hypothesis?
Support
What does reliability mean in science?
Results are consistent when an investigation is repeated.