1. How to write a good hypothesis. Step 2 in the Scientific Method

2. What is a hypothesis? A researched explanation—It is not a guess!

3. Parts of the Statement Independent Variable: The condition be studied. It is controlled or manipulateed by the experimenter. ex. Air pressure Dependent Variable: The condition affected by the independent variable. It can’t be controlled by the experimenter. ex. Distance Constants: Factors that remain the same during an experiment. ex. Launcher, time of day, weather conditions… Control: The condition that is represented in a normal situation or what we are comparing our results too.

4. Steps to Writing the “If” section of your Hypothesis 1.Start your sentence with the word “If” 2.Write down one of the variables 3.Connect statement with one of the following: is related to is affected by causes 4.Write down the other variable

5. How do you write a GREAT hypothesis? Use the If, then formula If + independent variable, then + dependent variable Or…. If I change this, then this will happen.

6. Example Problem: I wonder if the amount of air affects a rockets distance? If I shoot a rocket at 100 psi, then it will go further than one shot at 80 psi. Independent Variable Dependent Variable

7. Remember… Try to use INCREASE and DECREASE in your hypothesis! Ex. IF I increase the amount of air pressure for a rockett launch, THEN the distance the rocket travels will increase. You are predicting CAUSE and EFFECT

8. Example 2 Ex. If section: If water is related to plant growth, Ex. Then section: then the more you water plants, the bigger they will grow.

9. If water is related to plant growth, then the more you water plants, the bigger they will grow. Independent Variable Dependent variable

10. Now Write Your Own! Use the Hypothesis Worksheet to complete your Hypothesis and include it in the first paragraph of your Research paper.

11. References This PowerPoint was adapted from Ms. Ubbing’s Science Wiki http://msubbingscience.wikispaces.c om/LS+1+- +Science+Investigations+and+Exper imentshttp://msubbingscience.wikispaces.c om/LS+1+- +Science+Investigations+and+Exper iments