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Aim ,Varaibles and Hypotheses Revised OKS

Experiment Components

Aim

  • The aim of an experiment is what you are trying to find out.

  • Reference the Investigation Question for clarity.

Variables

  • Independent Variable (IV): The factor that you change or test in the experiment.

  • Dependent Variable (DV): The factor that you measure or observe in the experiment.

  • Controlled Variables (CV): A list of elements that are kept constant throughout the experiment to ensure valid results.

    • All controlled variables must remain exactly the same in the method.

Hypothesis

  • A hypothesis is a prediction of what you believe will happen in the experiment.

  • Format your hypothesis using this structure:

    • "If (insert independent variable), then (insert dependent variable)".

  • Example: "If the speed of the car is increased, then the distance the car travels will increase."

Specific Experiment Example

Scenario

  • Objective: Kobie wants to investigate whether different coloured crayons affect the time it takes for them to melt over a hotplate.

Variables Identified

  • Independent Variable (IV): Different coloured crayons.

  • Dependent Variable (DV): Time it takes for the crayon to melt.

  • Controlled Variables (CV):

    • Crayons have the same mass.

    • Crayons are the same brand.

    • Crayons are the same shape and size.

    • Same heat source (hotplate) used.

    • Same temperature is maintained when heating.

    • Same heating pan/pot is utilized.

    • Same stopwatch is employed.

    • The method is carried out in the same setting (e.g., indoors).

Aim of the Experiment

  • To investigate if different coloured crayons affect the time it takes for the crayon to melt over a hotplate.

Hypothesis Examples

  1. Hypothesis Example 1: If the crayons are different colours, then the time it takes for the crayons to melt will be the same.

  2. Hypothesis Example 2: If the colour of the crayon is darker, then the time it takes for the crayon to melt will be faster than a lighter coloured crayon.

  3. Hypothesis Example 3: If the colour of the crayon is lighter, then the time it takes for the crayons to melt will be slower than a darker coloured crayon.