4.1.7

Writing a Hypothesis & Prediction

Test yourself

Writing a Hypothesis & Prediction

A prediction and a hypothesis are different. However, experiments should include both a hypothesis and a prediction.

Illustrative background for HypothesisIllustrative background for Hypothesis ?? "content

Hypothesis

  • A hypothesis is developed from an idea about a particular scientific concept.
    • A hypothesis is normally generated from an idea or observation.
Illustrative background for Examples of hypothesesIllustrative background for Examples of hypotheses ?? "content

Examples of hypotheses

  • Examples of hypotheses include:
    • Adding water to a sunflower will help it grow.
    • An increase in temperature will increase the rate of reaction.
    • A change in pH will affect how an enzyme works.
Illustrative background for PredictionIllustrative background for Prediction ?? "content

Prediction

  • A prediction can be made after the hypothesis.
    • The prediction will explain how your hypothesis can be tested.
    • The prediction states a relationship between two variables.
    • The stated relationship should be suggested in the hypothesis.
Illustrative background for Examples of predictionsIllustrative background for Examples of predictions ?? "content

Examples of predictions

  • Examples of predictions include:
    • If I increase the amount of water I use to water the plant, it will grow more.
    • If I decrease the temperature, the rate of reaction will decrease.
    • If I increase the pH, the rate of activity will increase.
Illustrative background for The word 'because'Illustrative background for The word 'because' ?? "content

The word 'because'

  • Once you have written the prediction, you can extend your work by using the word ‘because’.
  • The word 'because' allows you to explain your prediction.
    • Use your scientific knowledge to explain your prediction.

Jump to other topics

1Biology

1.1Cells, Tissues & Organs

1.2Reproduction & Variation

1.3Ecological Relationships & Classification

1.4Digestion & Nutrition

1.5Plants & Photosynthesis

1.6Biological Systems & Processes

2Chemistry

2.1Particles

2.2Chemical Reactions

2.3Atoms, Elements, Compounds

2.4The Periodic Table

2.5Materials & the Earth

2.6Reactivity

2.7Energetics

2.8Properties of Materials

3Physics

3.1Energy

3.2Forces & Motion

3.3Waves

3.4Electricity & Magnetism

3.5Matter

3.6Space Physics

4Thinking Scientifically

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson