Exploring a Hypothesis

Both examples include two statements from the script of the scene about reaction times in baseball.

The first is Malik’s hypothesis that “Boys are better at hitting fastballs than girls because boys have faster reaction times.” This statement has both elements.

It’s important that students recognize that regardless of our feelings or experiences, a statement that contains the essential elements is indeed a scientific hypothesis.

The second model includes Stephanie’s statement that “They lost because everybody has a bad day now and then.” While this statement has a view that Stephanie believes is true, the reason or cause cannot be tested with a measurement. Some students may insist that this can be tested with a measurement. If they do, encourage them to think about how they would measure having a bad day “now and then.” While Stephanie’s statement may be true, it cannot be a scientific hypothesis because it lacks the second element.

There are other correct ways to frame a hypothesis, such as using an if/then statement.

See here for an explanation of this alternate structure as well as an introduction to the terms dependent and independent variable.

Students identify whether or not a statement can be considered a hypothesis.

Check off whether or not the statement contains the components of a hypothesis.

Students write a brief explanation of their thinking for each statement.

Sample responses:

• George:
• George’s statement is a hypothesis because it includes both of the essential parts. First, he states his view that he believes fish are dying because of the pollution from the factory. The cause can be tested with a measurement because someone could measure the amount of pollution found in the stream.
• Christina:
• Christina’s statement contains the essential elements of a hypothesis because she can measure the amount of hours that students study and see if those who study more get higher grades. Because her statement includes a view that she thinks is true and a reason that can be tested with a measurement, Christina’s statement is a hypothesis.
• Tashia:
• Tashia’s statement is not a hypothesis because it does not contain a cause or reason that can be measured.

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