scientific method

quantitative

Data that is in numbers

qualitative

Data in the form of recorded descriptions rather than numerical measurements.

data

Facts, figures, and other evidence gathered through observations.

variables

Any measurable conditions, events, characteristics, or behaviors that are controlled or observed in an experiment.

independent variable

The experimental factor that is manipulated; the variable whose effect is being studied.

dependent variable

The outcome factor; the variable that may change in response to manipulations of the independent variable.

hypothesis

A prediction that can be tested

procedure

A way of organizing, writing, and conducting the experiment.

conclusion

A summary based on evidence or facts

research

the study and collecting of information about something.

prediction

A statement of what will happen next in a sequence of events.

inference

A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning

valid

The ability of a test to measure what it is intended to measure

repeated trials

When an experiment is done several times to see if you get similar results each time

evidence

Collected body of data from observations and experiments

experimental group

In an experiment, the group that is exposed to the treatment, that is, to one version of the independent variable.

control group

the group that does not receive the experimental treatment.

Contrasts with the experimental group and serves as a comparison for evaluating the effect of the treatment.

logical

reasonable; making use of reason and good sense

horizontal axis

The axis that goes across the bottom of the graph. The X-axis.

constant

A value that does not change

analyze

Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure

inference

A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning