Question

Mrs. O’Grady wants to know if doing labs with her science class really helps them learn the material better. She decides to test this out in her two 6th grade science classes. In both classes she gives the same amount and type of notes and homework, but in one class she does labs and the other class she doesn’t. At the end of the unit, she gives both classes the same unit test and compares the class averages.

Answer 1

1. Independent Variable - It is the variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment. Here, it is the labs as it is given to one group and not to the other one.

2. Dependent variable - It is what you measure in the experiment. It is called dependent because it "depends" on the independent variable. Here, it is the test average marks.

3. Hypothesis - It is a prediction that can be tested. Here it is that the experimental group will score well than the controlled group.

4. Control Group - The group which does not receive the test variable. Here it is the class with no labs.

5. Experimental group - The group in an experiment that receives the variable being tested. Here, it is the class which has been given labs.

6. Constants - Same amount of data given to both groups.

7. Possible threats to accuracy on results- Inadequate implementation of IV and DV. inappropriate use of statistical techniques etc.