Middle School Science Investigations

The first step in the scientific investigation process is to observe a phenomenon that you are curious about or that you want to learn more about.

A hypothesis is a prediction about the outcome of an experiment. It is based on your observations and prior knowledge.

The purpose of an experiment is to test a hypothesis. An experiment is a controlled study in which you manipulate one variable (the independent variable) to see how it affects another variable (the dependent variable).

A variable is a factor that can change in an experiment. The independent variable is the variable that you manipulate, and the dependent variable is the variable that you measure.

Data is the information that is collected in an experiment. Data can be quantitative (numbers) or qualitative (descriptions).

The purpose of data analysis is to organize and summarize data, identify trends and patterns in data, and draw conclusions from data.

A conclusion is a statement that summarizes the results of an experiment. A conclusion should be based on the data that was collected and analyzed.

A hypothesis is a specific prediction about the outcome of an experiment, while a theory is a general explanation of a natural phenomenon. A theory is supported by a large body of evidence, while a hypothesis is based on a limited amount of evidence.

The three main types of scientific investigations are observational studies, experimental studies, and case studies. Observational studies involve observing and recording data without manipulating any variables. Experimental studies involve manipulating one variable to see how it affects another variable. Case studies involve studying a single individual or group in depth.

Qualitative studies collect non-numerical data, such as observations, interviews, and focus groups. Quantitative studies collect numerical data, such as surveys, experiments, and polls.

The purpose of a case study is to study a single individual or group in depth. Case studies are often used to explore complex phenomena that cannot be easily studied using other methods.

Basic research is conducted to generate new knowledge, while applied research is conducted to solve specific problems. Basic research is often funded by government agencies, while applied research is often funded by private companies.

Descriptive studies describe a phenomenon, while analytical studies explain a phenomenon. Descriptive studies are often used to explore a new topic or to identify trends. Analytical studies are often used to test hypotheses or to determine the causes of a phenomenon.

Evaluative studies assess the effectiveness of a program or intervention, while research studies investigate a phenomenon. Evaluative studies are often used to determine whether a program or intervention is achieving its intended goals. Research studies are often used to explore a new topic or to identify trends.