KA3.1a - Scientific Method

Question 1

What are the six steps of the scientific cycle

Answer 1

1. Observation
2. Construction of a testable hypothesis
3. Experimental design
4. Gathering, recording and analysis of data
5. Evaluation of results and conclusions
6. The formation of a revised hypothesis where necessary

Must be in order

Question 2

Define the ‘hypothesis’

Answer 2

proposes a specific explanation or prediction to explain what you have observed or will observe

Question 3

How is a hypothesis different from an aim?

Answer 3

A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or prediction for an observation, while an aim is what the scientist intends to find out, usually how the independent variable affects the dependent variable.

Question 4

Define ‘null hypothesis’

Answer 4

proposes that there will be no statistically significant effect as a result of the experiment treatment

e.g. the treatment will do nothing

Question 5

What does “statistically significant” mean in science?

Answer 5

A result is statistically significant if it is unlikely to have occurred by chance alone

Question 6

What is implied if there is no statistically significant difference between values?

Answer 6

the difference between the values being compared is likely due to chance.

e.g. your independent variable does NOT affect your dependent variable

Question 7

Why are negative results valid?

Answer 7

Because a well-designed experiment that finds no effect still provides useful information

Question 8

When do scientific ideas become accepted?

Answer 8

• Checked independently
• Effects must be reproducible; one-off results are treated with caution

Question 9

Define ‘independent variable’

Answer 9

The factor in an experiment that is being changed

Question 10

Define ‘dependent variable’

Answer 10

The factor in an experiment that is being measured