Scientific method

Question 1

What is the first step of the scientific method?

Answer 1

Making observations

This involves noting apparent patterns in the world around us, usually leading to a question.

Question 2

What is a hypothesis?

Answer 2

A suggested explanation that can be tested

Hypotheses are formulated based on observations.

Question 3

What is the purpose of conducting experiments in the scientific method?

Answer 3

To determine if there is sufficient evidence to support the hypothesis or reject/revise it

Experiments help validate or invalidate the hypothesis.

Question 4

What happens after analyzing the results from an experiment?

Answer 4

Draw conclusions and make revisions

There are no ‘wrong answers’ in this process; it is about learning from data.

Question 5

What is a variable in a scientific experiment?

Answer 5

Part of the experiment that is subject to change

Variables can be independent (cause) or dependent (effect).

Question 6

What is the difference between an experimental group and a control group?

Answer 6

Experimental group is given treatment; control group receives no treatment (placebo)

Differences in outcomes between these groups are attributed to the variable being tested.

Question 7

What makes a scientific experiment powerful?

Answer 7

The ability to control variables

This control makes results easier to interpret.

Question 8

What defines a scientific theory?

Answer 8

It has been repeatedly tested and no experimental results have contradicted it

Scientific theories are well-supported explanations in science.

Question 9

Fill in the blank: A well-designed scientific experiment includes independent and _______ variables.

Answer 9

dependent

Independent variables are the causes, while dependent variables are the effects.

Question 10

What are the steps of the scientific method?

Answer 10

Making observations
Formulating a hypothesis
Devising a testable prediction
Conducting experiments
Drawing conclusions and making revisions