Basic Scientific Concepts

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Hypothesis

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A proposed explanation for a phenomenon, based on limited evidence, as a starting point for further investigation.

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Experiment

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A scientific procedure undertaken to test a hypothesis by collecting data under controlled conditions.

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NGSS.HS-PS1-3

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Scientific Method

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A systematic process for conducting experiments and analyzing data to answer questions and test hypotheses.

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NGSS.HS-PS1-3

NGSS.HS-PS3-4

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Scientific Theory

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A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on a body of evidence and repeated testing.

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NGSS.HS-LS4-2

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Scientific Law

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A statement based on repeated experimental observations that describes an aspect of the world, often expressed mathematically.

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NGSS.HS-PS2-1

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Control Group

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The group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment and is used as a benchmark to measure how the other tested subjects do.

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Experimental Group

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The group in an experiment that receives the treatment or variable being tested.

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Independent Variable

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The variable in an experiment that is manipulated to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

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Dependent Variable

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The variable in an experiment that is observed and measured to assess the effect of the independent variable.

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Constants

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The factors in an experiment that are kept the same in all groups to ensure that the test results are due to the independent variable.