What questions can be tested scientifically? Chapter 0 Challenge

Name
Date
Challenge
Chapter 0
Class
LESSON 1
What questions can be tested scientifically?
Some of the best, well-formed questions cannot be answered because they cannot be
tested. Recall that a hypothesis is an explanatory statement about an observation that can
be tested. How could you form a testable hypothesis based on the question, “Are freckles
more attractive than dimples?” It is difficult to objectively quantify attractiveness.
Furthermore, not all hypotheses can be investigated in a controlled experiment. Some
questions, especially those dealing with people and behavior, must be investigated in
another way. Data have to be obtained in some way that can be quantified or objectively
measured.
Use Scientific Methods
Consider this statement: Roses are more beautiful than daisies because they have fewer
petals. Is this statement a well-stated hypothesis that can be tested scientifically? If it is,
explain how. If it is not, explain why not.
1. Revise the statement above so you can state a testable hypothesis regarding roses and
daisies. Be narrow and specific when you restate the hypothesis. Do not include
extraneous variables.
2. Design a scientific investigation to test your revised hypothesis.
3. Describe in detail how you will collect your data and how you will organize and
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analyze your data.
4. Explain how you will communicate your results.
5. With approval and permission, perform your investigation.
6. Use the flowchart below to help you design your investigation.
Form hypothesis.
Scientific Explanations
Perform investigation.
Reject or revise your
hypothesis.
Analyze results.
Communicate results.
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