Controls and Variables in Science

Controls and Variables in Science

Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. This worksheet will test your understanding of independent, dependent, and controlled variables in scientific experiments.

1. The variable that is changed or manipulated by the experimenter is called the   variable.

2. The variable that is measured or observed as a result of the experiment is called the   variable.

3. Factors that are kept the same throughout an experiment to ensure a fair test are called   variables.

4. A   group is used for comparison and does not receive the experimental treatment.

5. A scientist is testing how different amounts of fertilizer affect plant growth. What is the independent variable in this experiment?

6. In an experiment investigating if a new drug lowers blood pressure, what would be the dependent variable?

7. A controlled variable is the one that the scientist intentionally changes.

8. Without controlled variables, it is difficult to determine if the independent variable is truly causing the observed changes.

9. A student wants to find out if playing music helps plants grow taller. Describe an experiment they could conduct to test this, identifying the independent, dependent, and at least two controlled variables.

Match the term to its definition.