Understanding Experimental Variables

What do you already know about experimental variables?

 Introduction

Experimental variables are important factors that can influence the outcome of an experiment. Let's explore the different types of variables.

Independent Variable

The independent variable is the factor that the researcher intentionally changes or manipulates in an experiment.

Dependent Variable

The dependent variable is the factor that is being measured or observed. It is the outcome or result of the experiment.

 Control Variable

The control variable is the factor that remains constant or unchanged throughout the experiment. It helps establish a baseline for comparison.

Identifying Variables

In an experiment, it's important to identify the independent, dependent, and control variables. Let's practice identifying variables.

What is the purpose of identifying variables in an experiment?

1. To make the experiment more complex.
2. To understand the cause and effect relationship and ensure reliable results.
3. To confuse the participants.
4. To waste time and resources.

Which variable is not important in an experiment?

1. The control variable.
2. The dependent variable.
3. None of the variables are unimportant.
4. The independent variable.

What is the control variable in an experiment?

1. The variable that is measured or observed.
2. The variable that is not important.
3. The variable that stays the same.
4. The variable that is purposely changed or manipulated.

What is the dependent variable in an experiment?

1. The variable that is not important.
2. The variable that stays the same.
3. The variable that is measured or observed.
4. The variable that is purposely changed or manipulated.

What is the independent variable in an experiment?

1. The variable that is measured or observed.
2. The variable that is purposely changed or manipulated.
3. The variable that stays the same.
4. The variable that is not important.

Slide 6: Question 1

In an experiment testing the effect of temperature on plant growth, what is the independent variable?

In an experiment testing the effect of temperature on plant growth, what is the independent variable?

Slide 7: Question 2

In an experiment investigating the impact of exercise on heart rate, what is the dependent variable?

In an experiment investigating the impact of exercise on heart rate, what is the dependent variable?

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.