Scientific Inquiry and Hypothesis

Scientific Inquiry

Inquiry-based science adopts an investigative approach to teaching and learning where students are given opportunities to investigate a problem, search for attainable solutions, create observations, ask questions, check out ideas, and think creatively and use their intuition. In this method, students build their knowledge and understanding of the world around them through the method of inquiry. Scientific inquiry is a powerful way of understanding science content. Students learn how to ask questions and use evidence to answer them. These steps should follow when using the scientific inquiry.

• Observe and explore. 
• Ask questions. 
• Select a question that can be answered through investigation.
• Experiment or observe to answer question.
• Reflect on what happen.
• More questions.

Scientific Practices

The purpose of the scientific practices it to encourage students to consider science as a method with no set order or method. The practices indicate that not only is skill needed, however knowledge as well. The practices are; 

• Asking Question.
• Developing and using methods.
• Planning and carrying out investigations. 
• Analyzing and interpreting data.
• Using mathematics, information technology.
• Constructing explanations.
• Engaging in arguments from evidence.
• Obtaining, evaluating and communicating information.

Experimental and Non-experimental Tests

An experiment is a procedure designed to check a hypothesis as a part of the scientific method. Physics, and natural science generally, is a reasonable enterprise supported valid experimental evidence, criticism, and rational discussion. The 2 key variables in any experiment are the independent and dependent variables.

• Independent variable: In simple words the independent variable is the one that is changed by the scientist. 
• Dependent variable: In simple words a Dependent variable is what happens as a result of the independent variable. 

Non-experimental test is that the form of testing that doesn't involve the manipulation of control or independent variable. In non-experimental test, scientists measure variables as they naturally occur without any further manipulation.

Hypothesis

Hypothesis is an assumption that is made on the basis of some evidence. Many people are describe it as an "educated guess," based on prior knowledge and observation. It includes elements like variables, population and also the relation between the variables. A hypothesis is usually examined by multiple scientists to make sure the integrity and truthfulness of the experiment. This method can take years, and in several cases hypotheses don't go any further in the scientific method because it is difficult to collect sufficient supporting evidence.

Characteristics of Hypothesis

These are the characteristics of hypothesis;

• The hypothesis should be clear and precise to consider it to be reliable.
• If the hypothesis is a relational hypothesis, then it should be stating the relationship between variables.
• The hypothesis must be specific and should have scope for conducting more tests.
• The way of explanation of the hypothesis must be very simple and it should also be understood by anyone.

Types of Hypothesis

There are six type of hypothesis. They are;

• Simple hypothesis: It shows a relationship between one dependent variable and a single independent variable.
• Complex hypothesis: It shows the relationship between two or more dependent variables and two or more independent variables.
• Directional hypothesis: The relationship between the variables can also predict its nature.
• Non-directional hypothesis: It is used when there is no theory involved.
• Null hypothesis: It’s a negative statement, and there is no relationship between independent and dependent variables.
• Associative and casual hypothesis: Associative hypothesis occurs when there is a change in one variable resulting in a change in the other variable.

Functions of Hypothesis

These are the functions of hypothesis.

• Hypothesis helps in creating an observation and experiments attainable.
• Hypothesis helps in confirming the observations.
• It helps in guiding the inquiries in the right directions. 
• It becomes the beginning point for the investigation.

Thank You!!!

Written by: Himauv Atthanayake