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Scientific Method Vocabulary
Observation
Question (Problem)
Research
Hypothesis
Independent
Variable
Dependent
Variable
Control Variables
(Constants)
Control Group
Experimental Group
Prodecure
Data
Analysis
Conclusion
Something you notice.
What you want to investigate.
Gather information before testing.
A testable prediction using
If...then
The one factor the scientist changes.
The factor that is measured or observed.
Everything kept the same so the test is fair.
The group that DOES NOT receive the treatment.
The group that receives the treatment being tested.
Step-by-step directions for the experiment.
Information gathered during experiment.
Looking in patterns in the data.
What the data tells you.
What it Means
Example:
Question: Does listening to music while studying improve quiz scores?
Example from the Music Experiment
Observation
Some students say they study better with music.
Question (Problem)
Does listening to music while studying improve quiz scores?
Research
Read articles about music, concentration, and learning.
Hypothesis
If students study with calm instrumental music, then they will score higher because the music may help them focus.
Independent
Variable
Whether students study with music or without music.
Dependent
Variable
Students' quiz scores.
Control Variables
(Constants)
Same study time, same quiz, same classroom, same teacher, same amount of material, same testing conditions
Control Group
Students who study without music.
Experimental Group
Students who study with music.
Prodecure
Both groups study for 30 minutes, then take the same quiz.
Data
Quiz scores for every student.
Analysis
Compare the average quiz scores of both groups.
Conclusion
Determine whether the data supports the hypothesis.
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