Unit 21: Foundations of Scientific Inquiry and Experimentation

Day 20 of 30

When results don't support hypothesis

3-5Science

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Learning Objective

Students will be able to explore when results don't support hypothesis.

Today's Lesson

In this lesson, we'll explore when results don't support hypothesis. Scientific inquiry allows us to investigate and explain natural phenomena.

A hypothesis is an educated guess or prediction about what will happen in an experiment. It should be testable and based on what you already know. For example: "If I water a plant every day, then it will grow taller than a plant watered once a week." A good hypothesis uses "If...then..." format. After testing, you'll find out if your hypothesis was supported or not—both outcomes teach us something!

As you work through today's material, pay attention to the examples and try to identify the patterns or strategies being used. This will help you apply these concepts to new problems.

Take notes on key points and make connections to what you've already learned in previous lessons.

Key Terms
Hypothesis

A testable prediction about an outcome

Investigate

To examine systematically through observation and experiment

Activities
Instructions
1. Read the background information on when results don't support hypothesis. 2. Form a hypothesis before beginning. 3. Conduct the investigation following procedures. 4. Record observations and analyze results.
Materials Needed
  • Lab notebook
  • Investigation materials
  • Safety equipment if needed
Practice Problems
1

List the steps of the scientific method in order.

Hint: Start with asking a question.
2

Write a hypothesis for this question: "Does music help plants grow?"

Hint: Use "If...then..." format.
3

Why is it important to have a control group in an experiment?

Hint: What do we compare the results to?

Teaching Tip

For this age group: Balance direct instruction with collaborative activities. Allow students to explain their thinking and make connections to prior knowledge when exploring when results don't support hypothesis.

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