Scaffolding Titles, Questions and Hypotheses

Developing titles
Titles should state both the independent and dependent variable.

Sample format: The effect of (independent variable) on (dependent variable).

Developing investigable questions

When thinking about the variables suggested by your topic of interest, construct some possible
relationships between some of these variables.

Sample format: How will (independent variable) affect (dependent variable)?

Developing hypotheses:
There are many ways hypotheses can be worded. Two suggestions are below. We recommend
that students include a scientifically-based reason or explanation for their prediction in the form
of a “because” statement regardless of the way the rest of the hypothesis is worded.

Sample format: I think (independent variable) will affect (dependent variable) and I expect
(predicted result) because (describe your scientific reasons or explain why you expect/predict
this relationship between the variables. Include scientific concepts that relate to this
prediction.)

Sample format: If (summarize investigation or action being planned) then (predict result)
because (describe your scientific reasons or explain why you expect/predict this relationship
between the variables. Include scientific concepts that relate to this prediction.)

The space after the “because” should include your reasons or an explanation why you think
one variable will affect the other variable in a certain way. This should be based on your
background research and scientific concepts related to your topic of study.