Lesson 1 of 12

🔬 Scientific Method & Data

🎯 Grades 6–8 ⏱ ~35 minutes 🟢 Beginner

What You'll Learn

The six steps of the scientific method
How to write a hypothesis using "If…then…" format
The difference between independent, dependent, and controlled variables
How to collect, record, and graph experimental data

📈 Experiment Data Recorder

Simulate a plant growth experiment. Adjust the "sunlight hours" slider and click "Record Trial" to add data points. Then view the graph.

Sunlight Hours = 4

📄 Hypothesis Builder

Fill in the blanks to write a scientific hypothesis in "If…then…" format.

If ,

then .

The Six Steps of the Scientific Method

Observation / Question — Notice something and ask a testable question.
Research — Find out what is already known about the topic.
Hypothesis — Make a testable prediction using "If…then…" format.
Experiment — Design and conduct a controlled experiment.
Data Analysis — Record, organize, and graph your results.
Conclusion — State whether your data supported the hypothesis and what you learned.

Types of Variables

Independent variable — the factor you change on purpose (the "cause").

Dependent variable — the factor you measure (the "effect").

Controlled variables — factors kept the same so they don't affect results.

Example: Testing how sunlight affects plant growth. Sunlight = independent, growth = dependent, water/soil/pot = controlled.

💡

Good vs Bad Hypotheses

A good hypothesis is testable and falsifiable. "Plants grow taller with more light" can be tested. "Plants are happier with more light" cannot be measured. Always use measurable terms.

🧪

Science Is Self-Correcting

Even famous scientists are wrong sometimes! When new evidence disproves a hypothesis, science updates its understanding. That's the beauty of the scientific method — it's a self-correcting process that gets closer to truth over time.

❓ Check Your Understanding

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