Scientific Investigation Concepts

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Independent or Manipulated Variable

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The one variable you are testing/changing on purpose in an investigation. Example: The Forest Ranger wants to know if different types of soil will determine the height of the trees.

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Dependent or Responding Variables

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The one variable you measure as a result of the investigation (data). Example: The Forest Ranger wants to know if different types of soil will determine the height of the trees.

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Controlled Variables

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The variables that remain constant (the same) in an investigation. Example: The same type of tree was planted. All trees received the same amount of sunlight, water, and fertilizer.

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Hypothesis

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A prediction about the outcome of the investigation. Example: If I plant the trees in sand, then I think the trees will grow taller than the trees planted in red clay.

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Bar Graph

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This graph is used when you are displaying data in separate or distinct categories. Example: A bar graph is used when you are comparing the numbers of different types of trees in a forest.

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Line Graph

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This graph is used when you are measuring the same variable over time. The manipulated variable is continuous. Example: A line graph is used when you are comparing the growth of a tree you measure each year for a period of ten years.

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Units of Measurement

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1 meter = 100 cm = 1000 mm 1 kilometer = 1000 m 1 liter = 1000 mL 1 kiloliter = 1000 liters 1 kilogram = 1000 grams 1 gram = 1000 milligrams Centi = 1/100 Kilo = 1000 Milli = 1/1000

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Graph Axes

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Dependent/Responding Variable: Y-axis Manipulated/Independent Variable: X-axis