Using this checklist, students can ensure that their hypothesis is testable through a true experiment and that they have stated it appropriately.
A hypothesis must be specific and clearly state the relationship between the independent (IV) and dependent variables (DV). The IV is the thing that causes the other variable. The DV is the thing that is caused by the IV. My independent variable (X) is __________________________. To analyze my data, I need to put it into a spreadsheet. Keep in mind that this can be a true/false, yes/no binary measurement, such as the experimental group (0) and control group (1). I can measure my IV by observing and recording (as numbers) _____________________________________________. My dependent variable (Y) is ___________________________. I can Measure it by _________________________________. For an experiment to be considered a true experiment, the researcher must be able to control the independent variable and manipulate it in a way that will allow for a cause-and-effect relationship to be established. I can manipulate (e.g., randomly assign subjects to experimental and control groups) the IV by ___________________________________. The dependent variable must be measurable (in numbers for the spreadsheet), and the measurement must be reliable and consistent across different trials or participants. I can reliability measure my DV by observing and recording _____________________________________________. A control group is usually necessary to compare the effects of the independent variable to a group that has not been exposed to it. This is often the “status quo treatment.” In other words, the control group gets “business as usual.” Rather than the experimental treatment, my control group will get _____________________________________________. My final hypothesis is: __________________ (X) causes an [increase/decrease/change] in __________________ (Y).
Developed by Adam J. McKee.
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