Scientific Method Vocab

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Dependent Variable

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The variable that is measured in an experiment; it responds to changes in the independent variable. Example: In Mike's experiment, plant growth is the dependent variable.

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Conclusion

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A summary based on evidence or facts that describes whether the hypothesis was supported or rejected.

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Inference

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A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning.

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Problem

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Always in the form of a question; the question we are trying to answer by doing the experiment.

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Controlled Variable

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A variable that stays the same in all trials to ensure a fair test.

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Independent Variable

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The variable that is changed or manipulated in an experiment. Example: The type of music played to the plants.

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Hypothesis

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A testable prediction about the relationship between variables. Example: 'Plants exposed to classical music will grow taller than those exposed to rock music.'

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Data

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Information collected during an experiment, which can be qualitative (descriptive) or quantitative (numerical).

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Experiment

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A procedure carried out to test a hypothesis, involving controlled conditions.

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Control Group

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The group in an experiment that does not receive the experimental treatment and is used for comparison.