Scientific Method Vocabulary

Hypothesis

• A definitive conclusion drawn from data.

• A tentative, testable explanation; An educated guess or prediction about what will happen in an experiment.

• A random guess without any basis.

• A statement that cannot be tested.

Circle Graph

• A type of graph used to show relationships between variables.

• A graph that displays data in bars.

• A type of graph used to show percentage or fractions of the whole.

• A graph that represents data points on a line.

Quantitative Data

• Data that can be counted or measured.

• Data that describes qualities or characteristics.

• Data that is subjective and opinion-based.

• Data that is collected through observation.

Independent Variable

• The factor in the experiment that is changed by the scientist.

• The factor that remains constant throughout the experiment.

• The outcome that is measured in the experiment.

• The variable that is manipulated by the control group.

Vertical Axis (y-axis)

• Independent variable: the factor that is manipulated.

• Dependent variable: the factor that responds to the change.

• Control variable: the factor that is kept constant.

• Random variable: the factor that is not controlled.

Peer Review

• An evaluation of experimental results.

• A method for data collection.

• A type of statistical analysis.

• A process for publishing research papers.

Dependent Variable

• The factor that is tested and measured during the experiment.

• The variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment.

• The outcome that is not affected by other variables.

• The constant factor that remains unchanged throughout the experiment.

Graph Title

• The title provides a summary of the data presented in the graph and is usually found at the bottom.

• The title gives an overview of the information being presented in the graph and is located at the top.

• The title is optional and can be placed anywhere on the graph.

• The title only describes the x-axis of the graph.

Experiment

• A test or procedure performed in a controlled setting.

• A random occurrence without any specific purpose.

• An observation made in a natural environment.

• A theoretical concept that cannot be tested.

Constant/Controlled Variable

• A factor that remains fixed during an experiment.

• A variable that changes in response to the independent variable.

• A variable that is manipulated by the experimenter.

• A factor that is measured in the experiment.