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Hypotheses

Hypotheses are statements that predict an outcome and provide a potential explanation for an experiment, based on prior knowledge. By using the resources below, students will learn about this important science skill and practice making good hypotheses.

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6th grade definition of hypothesis

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6th grade definition of hypothesis

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Hypothesis | Definition, Types & Examples

Sr. Kelly Biddle, PhD, OP, has taught at both the community college and high school level for over 11 years. After earning degrees in both English and Biochemistry from Rice University in Houston, Texas, she went on to earn her doctorate in Molecular and Environmental Plant Sciences from Texas A&M University. Sr. Kelly has also taught ESL and GED and designed educational computer games.

Lisa has taught at all levels from kindergarten to college and has a master's degree in human relations.

Matthew has a Master of Arts degree in Physics Education. He has taught high school chemistry and physics for 14 years.

Table of Contents

Hypothesis definition, hypothesis vs. theory, formulating a hypothesis, hypothesis examples, lesson summary.

A hypothesis is commonly known as an guess based on former knowledge, or an educated guess. Scientists use the scientific method to study phenomenon they observe. After observing a phenomenon a scientist will do research and then form a hypothesis to test. Let's form a few hypotheses based on some observations that have been recorded.

Based on what you read, write a hypothesis that might be tested.

  • Wind is commonly strong and cool in temperature seen before a summer storm.
  • Sunflowers rotate to follow the sun.
  • Water always flows downhill.
  • A dog likes to walk in tight circles before it lays down.
  • A light bulb turns illuminates when a switch is switched.

Possible hypotheses

  • If the storm moves in more slowly then the wind will be weaker and the air will be warmer.
  • If the light source moves faster than the sun in the sky then the sunflower will speed up its rotation.
  • If the water slope the water follows is steeper the water will move faster downhill.
  • If the dog's bed is puffier then the dog will do more tight circles before laying down.
  • If the wiring in the switch in the circuit is reversed then the light bulb will not illuminate when the switch is switched on.

Notice all of these possible hypotheses are "if - then" statements.

How do we write a hypothesis?

A good hypothesis begins with observations that cause curiosity and speculation. The observations are used to define a problem for further investigation. The most important step in preparing a hypothesis is thorough research into what is already known about the problem and what experiments have already been done.

The written hypothesis consists of three parts: the explanation describing the relationship between the variables in the experiment, the independent variable what will be tested, and the dependent variable that will be measured as the result of the experiment.

What is an example of a hypothesis?

A hypothesis is a specific prediction, based on previous research that can be tested in an experiment. A hypothesis is often called an "educated guess," but this is an oversimplification.

An example of a hypothesis would be: "If snake species A and B compete for the same resources, and if we construct environments containing either species A only, species B only, or a mixture of species A and B, then the population sizes should be the smallest in the mixed population."

What are the three hypotheses?

  • If dogs prefer beef protein to chicken protein, and if I create mixtures of dog food with different amounts of these two proteins, then dogs will eat more of the mixtures that contain the highest amounts of beef protein.
  • If consuming less calories leads to weight loss, and if I try a variety of different diets, then eating the diet with the least amount of calories will result in the most weight loss.
  • If burning (combustion) different salts produces different colors of flame, and if I have several unknown salts to test, then I can burn each of the unknowns and identify it based on the color of the resulting flame.

Good science relies on accurately using the scientific method, and the scientific method relies on well-crafted hypotheses. A hypothesis is a specific prediction based on previous research that can be tested in an experiment.

Most people have created and tested an informal hypothesis in their day-to-day lives without realizing it. An example of an everyday hypothesis might be a person at home cooking a pasta dish; they think to themself, "maybe adding more oregano will make this pasta taste better than it does." The experiment was eating the pasta to see if they liked it or not. Additionally, thinking, "I will try driving the other route to work today to see if it is faster than my normal route" is also an example of an informal hypothesis.

Characteristics of a Hypothesis

A scientific hypothesis is a bit more structured than the informal examples above; though the specifics can vary by discipline, most scientific hypotheses have three parts:

  • An explanation
  • An independent variable (which will be tested in the experiment)
  • A dependent variable (the expected outcome)

The first part of the hypothesis explains the relationship between two variables used in the experiment; the independent and dependent variables. The independent variable is set up by the researcher and is usually the driving force in the experiment; it causes any outcome or change. The dependent variable is the outcome or result of the experiment that the researcher can measure.

For example, if scientists determine the effectiveness of various insecticides, a reasonable hypothesis would be: "If chemical 'A' effectively kills mosquitoes, and if we spray increasing amounts of chemical 'A' on mosquito populations, then more mosquitoes will die." Here, the explanation is "chemical 'A' effectively kills mosquitoes," the independent variable is the amounts of insecticide being tested, which is determined by the research scientist and the cause in the experiment. Lastly, the dependent variable is the percentage of killed mosquitoes ; measured as the result of the experiment.

Additionally, a reasonable hypothesis will have the following attributes, often called the criteria of adequacy :

  • Testability : It must be possible to test the hypothesis using an experiment. The hypothesis can not speculate on untestable or supernatural phenomena.
  • Parsimony : The hypothesis relies on the simplest possible explanation.
  • Scope : A good hypothesis should be widely applicable with limited modification, meaning it should be able to explain and form predictions about closely related scientific phenomena.
  • Fruitfulness : The hypothesis must yield a prediction about what will occur during the experiment.
  • Conservatism : The hypothesis must align with available information and theories. It should be based on known scientific information while exploring untested facets or applications of the information.

Types of Hypotheses

Hypotheses are often evaluated using various statistical analyses. This type of analysis requires two particular types of hypotheses: null hypotheses and alternative hypotheses.

The null hypothesis predicts that the independent variable will have no effect on the dependent variable, i.e., any changes the scientist makes to the independent variable will not change the dependent variable. In contrast, the alternative hypothesis , sometimes called the experimental hypothesis , can predict what change the independent variable will cause to the dependent variable.

For example, imagine a group of scientists who wanted to test whether watching a specific commercial made people more likely to buy a product. Their two hypotheses would be:

  • Null hypothesis : "If seeing this ad has no effect on how much people want the product, and if they watch the ad two more times, then they will not purchase the product any more than people who have not watched the ad."
  • Alternative hypothesis : "If seeing this ad makes people want the product more , and if they watch the ad two or more times, then they will purchase more of the product than people who have not watched the ad."

Null Hypothesis vs Alternative Hypothesis

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  • 0:00 What Is A Hypothesis?
  • 0:35 The Purpose Of A Hypothesis
  • 1:45 How To Develop A Hypothesis
  • 3:00 How To Write A Hypothesis
  • 4:25 Examples
  • 5:20 Lesson Summary

The two terms hypothesis and theory cannot be used interchangeably as they have very different definitions. As discussed, a hypothesis is a specific prediction based on previous research that can be tested in an experiment. A theory is a broad collection of verified, widely practical scientific knowledge.

The table below describes some of the most important differences between a hypothesis and a scientific theory.

Criteria of Adequacy Hypothesis Theory
Reliability Highly-tested; verified by many experiments in a variety of fields Educated guess; created to be tested by an experiment
Scope Extensive; contains knowledge that can be applied to a variety of fields Particular and narrow; predicts the outcome of one experiment
Consistency Does not change easily; regarded as scientific "fact" Often edited and revised
Fruitfulness Makes many predictions leading to new scientific inquiries Makes one specific prediction that an experiment will test

For example, in crime-drama television shows, a detective character will often say, "I have a theory about who our murderer is." This statement might be entertaining T.V., but it is not scientifically correct; since the detective is guessing the identity of the murderer, the detective should say, "I have a hypothesis about who the murdered is!" The hypothesis becomes a theory only when the murderer is convicted and in jail (i.e., tested by multiple experiments).

Hypotheses are needed in all kinds of research. Psychologists and sociologists depend upon hypothesis-based experimental research just as much as physicists and chemists. For all of these, the process of creating a hypothesis is quite similar.

How to Develop a Hypothesis

The steps in creating a reasonable scientific hypothesis can be summarized as the following:

  • Make observations : Observe the world and surrounding areas. Find the creative peaks in curiosity and discover what requires explanation.
  • Define a problem : Narrow the scope. Identify one area that can be experimented on and investigated.
  • Research the problem : Ask the questions, what have scientists already learned in this field; what research has already been done; are there previous experiments that can be continued or branched off?
  • Use research to create a hypothesis : Think about an experiment that could help answer the above problem. What variables need to be tested; what will measure as the outcome; what is the expected result?

People's most common mistakes when forming hypotheses are: Not researching enough or at all; do not underestimate the importance of knowing what other people have done and learned. To form a hypothesis, a person needs to understand the problem they are investigating before experimenting thoroughly. Additionally, good research helps ensure that time is not wasted by repeating experiments that have already been completed.

Another common mistake: Not being specific enough when defining a problem. One reasonable hypothesis is usually only enough for one experiment. Being specific in defining the problem helps scientists focus on designing and carry out good, well-designed research experiments.

Steps in Making a Hypothesis

How to Write a Hypothesis

A hypothesis has three essential parts: explanation , independent variable , and dependent variable . Some of the most common mistakes people make are leaving out the explanation or misidentifying the experiment's variables.

Hypothesis Essentials Question Example
Explanation What is the hypothesized relationship between the variables being tested? "If bees prefer brightly colored flowers to white or pastel flowers..."
Independent variable What will the scientist set up as part of the experimental conditions to test? "...and if bees are introduced into a garden containing a variety of flowers of all different colors and shades..."
Dependent variable What will the scientist measure or record as the outcome of the experiment? "...then a higher number of bees will be measured on brightly colored flowers."

IMPORTANT : Ensure the hypothesis is complete and contains all three essential parts .

Hypotheses are used in a variety of scientific disciplines. Some examples include:

  • Ecology : "If wolves are natural predators of deer, and if the wolf population is excessively culled in a certain geographic area, then the deer population should substantially increase in the same area."
  • Psychology : "If adequate sleep is important for sustained mental health, and we survey people to see how many hours they sleep each night, then people who report sleeping seven to eight hours a night should also report less anxiety."
  • Physics : "If a 2 kg object obeys Newton's Laws of Motion, and if a 3 N force hits the object, then its resulting acceleration should be 1.5 m/s2 (F=ma)."
  • Gastronomy or food science: "Different oils have different 'smoke points,' which are the highest amount of heat they can hold, and I want to try frying the same food in a variety of different oils, then the food should cook the fastest in oils with the highest smoke points."

It is essential to know that this is only a small list of many scientific disciplines that use hypotheses to guide their experimental research.

A hypothesis is a specific prediction based on previous research that can be tested in an experiment and is more narrow in scope and more mutable than a theory . Scientific theories are broad-reaching and well-substantiated collections of scientific knowledge, while a hypothesis is the predicted outcome of one specific experiment. A scientific hypothesis will have three parts:

  • Explanation , which is the hypothesized relationship between the variables being tested.
  • Independent variable , which will cause something to change or occur in the experiment.
  • Dependent variable , which will be measured as the outcome of the experiment.

There are two types of hypotheses used in statistical testing. The first is null hypothesis , which predicts that nothing will change in the experiment, i.e., the independent variable will not affect the dependent variable. The second is alternative hypothesis , which predicts the change in the dependent variable that the independent variable will cause.

A well-designed hypothesis will have the five following attributes: testability, parsimony, scope, fruitfulness, and conservatism. Additionally, a reasonable hypothesis is created by making observations, defining a problem, researching the problem, and designing an experiment.

Video Transcript

What is a hypothesis.

Imagine you have a test at school tomorrow. You stay out late and see a movie with friends. You know that when you study the night before, you get good grades. What do you think will happen on tomorrow's test?

When you answered this question, you formed a hypothesis. A hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction. It describes in concrete terms what you expect will happen in a certain circumstance. Your hypothesis may have been, 'If not studying lowers test performance and I do not study, then I will get a low grade on the test.'

The Purpose of a Hypothesis

A hypothesis is used in an experiment to define the relationship between two variables . The purpose of a hypothesis is to find the answer to a question. A formalized hypothesis will force us to think about what results we should look for in an experiment.

The first variable is called the independent variable . This is the part of the experiment that can be changed and tested. The independent variable happens first and can be considered the cause of any changes in the outcome. The outcome is called the dependent variable . The independent variable in our previous example is not studying for a test. The dependent variable that you are using to measure outcome is your test score.

Let's use the previous example again to illustrate these ideas. The hypothesis is testable because you will receive a score on your test performance. It is measurable because you can compare test scores received from when you did study and test scores received from when you did not study.

A hypothesis should always:

  • Explain what you expect to happen
  • Be clear and understandable
  • Be testable
  • Be measurable
  • And contain an independent and dependent variable

Another important aspect of a hypothesis is that it should be based on research. Remember that the purpose of a hypothesis is to find the answer to a question. The first thing you should do if you want to answer a question is to find as much information on the topic as you can. Before you come up with a specific hypothesis, spend some time doing research. Then, start thinking of questions you still have. After thoroughly researching your question, you should have an educated guess about how things work. This guess about the answer to your question is where your hypothesis comes from.

Let's imagine that you want to know why the leaves on the tree in your front yard change color in the fall. First, you would research this phenomenon. You observe what you see happen and read about the subject. You discover that the color change happens when the temperature cools. What question does this information make you ask?

You come up with the following question: 'Does temperature cause the leaves to change color on the tree in my front yard?' Next, you ask yourself if this can be tested. If it can be tested, you'll write a hypothesis that states what you expect to find. Your hypothesis could be 'If lower temperatures cause leaves to change color and the temperature surrounding a tree is decreased, then the leaves will change color.'

Let's learn how to properly write a hypothesis using the previous example of tomorrow's test. Examine the differences in the following hypotheses:

Not studying may cause a lower grade on my test.

This statement is not clear enough to be useful. Your hypothesis should be as specific as possible. You're trying to find the answer to a question. If the hypothesis is vague, it's unclear how to find the answer to your question.

If I do not study, then I will make a low grade on the test.

This statement makes a common mistake. You have written a simple cause and effect prediction that is based on an unstated assumption. You are assuming that not studying lowers test performance. You want to minimize these assumptions when you state your hypothesis. A hypothesis is clearer if you state a proposed relationship before making the prediction.

If not studying lowers test performance and I do not study, then I will get a lower grade on the test.

This hypothesis states a proposed relationship between studying and test performance. It is worded so that it can be tested and it makes a clear prediction of what will happen. The statement communicates that if one thing happens, then a second thing will occur.

We've used a couple of examples already, but let's look at some more examples of good and poor hypotheses. The following examples will help you better understand how a good hypothesis should look.

  • If people see funny commercials, then they are more likely to purchase a product.
  • If people prefer funny commercials, then funny commercials will produce more sales.
  • If you spend a lot of time in the sun, then you will increase your risk of skin cancer.
  • If skin cancer is related to sun exposure, then people who spend more time in the sun will have a higher frequency of skin cancer.
  • A plant that receives fertilizer will become larger than a plant that does not receive fertilizer.
  • If fertilizer helps grow larger plants and a plant is given fertilizer, then it will be larger than a plant that does not receive fertilizer.

Put simply, a hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction. More specifically, it describes in concrete terms what you expect will happen in a certain circumstance.

A hypothesis is used to determine the relationship between two variables , which are the two things that are being tested. One variable is independent and is the cause of any changes in the outcome. The other variable is dependent and is the outcome itself. In addition to requiring these kinds of variables, hypotheses need to be testable and measurable .

Finally, to develop a hypothesis, you must first figure out what question you have about a particular topic. From there, you must research all you can about this topic until you can make an educated guess at the answer to your question. And that is your hypothesis!

Hypothesis Terms & Definitions

Terms Definitions
Hypothesis a specific, testable prediction
Variables a relationship between two things being tested
Independent variable happens first and can be considered the cause of any changes in the outcome
Dependent variable the outcome
Testable/Measurable hypothesis needs to be both of these

Learning Outcomes

Students finished with this video can now:

  • Describe what a hypothesis is
  • Determine the variables of the hypothesis
  • Identify if it is testable and measureable
  • Explain examples of an hypothesis

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Course: biology archive   >   unit 1, the scientific method.

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6th grade definition of hypothesis

Introduction

  • Make an observation.
  • Ask a question.
  • Form a hypothesis , or testable explanation.
  • Make a prediction based on the hypothesis.
  • Test the prediction.
  • Iterate: use the results to make new hypotheses or predictions.

Scientific method example: Failure to toast

1. make an observation., 2. ask a question., 3. propose a hypothesis., 4. make predictions., 5. test the predictions..

  • If the toaster does toast, then the hypothesis is supported—likely correct.
  • If the toaster doesn't toast, then the hypothesis is not supported—likely wrong.

Logical possibility

Practical possibility, building a body of evidence, 6. iterate..

  • If the hypothesis was supported, we might do additional tests to confirm it, or revise it to be more specific. For instance, we might investigate why the outlet is broken.
  • If the hypothesis was not supported, we would come up with a new hypothesis. For instance, the next hypothesis might be that there's a broken wire in the toaster.

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Incredible Answer

  • Ask a question
  • Gather information and observe (research)
  • Make a hypothesis (guess the answer)
  • Experiment and test your hypothesis
  • Analyze your test results
  • Modify your hypothesis, if necessary
  • Present a conclusion
  • Retest (often done by other scientists)

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Every time you read about doing an experiment or starting a science fair project, it always says you need a hypothesis.  How do you write a hypothesis?  What is it?  How do you come up with a good hypothesis?

 

 

 

of Your Favorite Company!

What is a hypothesis?

No.  A hypothesis is sometimes described as an educated guess.  That's not the same thing as a guess and not really a good description of a hypothesis either.  Let's try working through an example.

If you put an ice cube on a plate and place it on the table, what will happen?  A very young child might guess that it will still be there in a couple of hours.  Most people would agree with the hypothesis that:

An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes.

You could put sit and watch the ice cube melt and think you've proved a hypothesis.  But you will have missed some important steps.

For a good science fair project you need to do quite a bit of research before any experimenting.  Start by finding some information about how and why water melts.  You could read a book, do a bit of Google searching, or even ask an expert.  For our example, you could learn about how temperature and air pressure can change the state of water.  Don't forget that elevation above sea level changes air pressure too.

Now, using all your research, try to restate that hypothesis.

An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes in a room at sea level with a temperature of 20C or 68F.

But wait a minute.  What is the ice made from?  What if the ice cube was made from salt water, or you sprinkled salt on a regular ice cube?  Time for some more research.  Would adding salt make a difference?  Turns out it does.  Would other chemicals change the melting time?

Using this new information, let's try that hypothesis again.

An ice cube made with tap water will melt in less than 30 minutes in a room at sea level with a temperature of 20C or 68F.

Does that seem like an educated guess?  No, it sounds like you are stating the obvious.

At this point, it is obvious only because of your research.  You haven't actually done the experiment.  Now it's time to run the experiment to support the hypothesis.

A hypothesis isn't an educated guess.  It is a tentative explanation for an observation, phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation.

Once you do the experiment and find out if it supports the hypothesis, it becomes part of scientific theory.

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Formative Assessment Probe

What Is a Hypothesis?

By Page Keeley

Uncovering Student Ideas in Science, Volume 3: Another 25 Formative Assessment Probes

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This is the new updated edition of the first book in the bestselling  Uncovering Student Ideas in Science  series. Like the first edition of volume 1, this book helps pinpoint what your students know (or think they know) so you can monitor their learning and adjust your teaching accordingly. Loaded with classroom-friendly features you can use immediately, the book includes 25 “probes”—brief, easily administered formative assessments designed to understand your students’ thinking about 60 core science concepts.

What Is a Hypothesis?

Access this probe as a Google form:  English

Download this probe as an editable PDF: English

The purpose of this assessment probe is to elicit students’ ideas about hypotheses. The probe is designed to find out if students understand what a hypothesis is, when it is used, and how it is developed.

Type of Probe

Justified List

Related Concepts

hypothesis, nature of science, scientific inquiry, scientific method

Explanation

The best choices are A, B, G, K, L, and M. However, other possible answers open up discussions to contrast with the provided definition. A hypothesis is a tentative explanation that can be tested and is based on observation and/or scientific knowledge such as that that has been gained from doing background research. Hypotheses are used to investigate a scientific question. Hypotheses can be tested through experimentation or further observation, but contrary to how some students are taught to use the “scientific method,” hypotheses are not proved true or correct. Students will often state their conclusions as “My hypothesis is correct because my data prove…,” thereby equating positive results with proof (McLaughlin 2006, p. 61). In essence, experimentation as well as other means of scientific investigation never prove a hypothesis—the hypothesis gains credibility from the evidence obtained from data that support it. Data either support or negate a hypothesis but never prove something to be 100% true or correct.

Hypotheses are often confused with questions. A hypothesis is not framed as a question but rather provides a tentative explanation in response to the scientific question that leads the investigation. Sometimes the word hypothesis is oversimplified by being defined as “an educated guess.” This terminology fails to convey the explanatory or predictive nature of scientific hypotheses and omits what is most important about hypotheses: their purpose. Hypotheses are developed to explain observations, such as notable patterns in nature; predict the outcome of an experiment based on observations or prior scientific knowledge; and guide the investigator in seeking and paying attention to the right data. Calling a hypothesis a “guess” undermines the explanation that underscores a hypothesis.

Predictions and hypotheses are not the same. A hypothesis, which is a tentative explanation, can lead to a prediction. Predictions forecast the outcome of an experiment but do not include an explanation. Predictions often use if-then statements, just as hypotheses do, but this does not make a prediction a hypothesis. For example, a prediction might take the form of, “If I do [X], then [Y] will happen.” The prediction describes the outcome but it does not provide an explanation of why that outcome might result or describe any relationship between variables.

Sometimes the words hypothesis , theory , and law are inaccurately portrayed in science textbooks as a hierarchy of scientific knowledge, with the hypothesis being the first step on the way to becoming a theory and then a law. These concepts do not form a sequence for the development of scientific knowledge because each represents a different type of knowledge.

Not every investigation requires a hypothesis. Some types of investigations do not lend themselves to hypothesis testing through experimentation. A good deal of science is observational and descriptive—the study of biodiversity, for example, usually involves looking at a wide variety of specimens and maybe sketching and recording their unique characteristics. A biologist studying biodiversity might wonder, “What types of birds are found on island X?” The biologist would observe sightings of birds and perhaps sketch them and record their bird calls but would not be guided by a specific hypothesis. Many of the great discoveries in science did not begin with a hypothesis in mind. For example, Charles Darwin did not begin his observations of species in the Galapagos with a hypothesis in mind.

Contrary to the way hypotheses are often stated by students as an unimaginative response to a question posed at the beginning of an experiment, particularly those of the “cookbook” type, the generation of hypotheses by scientists is actually a creative and imaginative process, combined with the logic of scientific thought. “The process of formulating and testing hypotheses is one of the core activities of scientists. To be useful, a hypothesis should suggest what evidence would support it and what evidence would refute it. A hypothesis that cannot in principle be put to the test of evidence may be interesting, but it is not likely to be scientifically useful” (AAAS 1988, p. 5).

Curricular and Instructional Considerations

Elementary Students

In the elementary school grades, students typically engage in inquiry to begin to construct an understanding of the natural world. Their inquiries are initiated by a question. If students have a great deal of knowledge or have made prior observations, they might propose a hypothesis; in most cases, however, their knowledge and observations are too incomplete for them to hypothesize. If elementary school students are required to develop a hypothesis, it is often just a guess, which does little to contribute to an understanding of the purpose of a hypothesis. At this grade level, it is usually sufficient for students to focus on their questions, instead of hypotheses (Pine 1999).

Middle School Students

At the middle school level, students develop an understanding of what a hypothesis is and when one is used. The notion of a testable hypothesis through experimentation that involves variables is introduced and practiced at this grade level. However, there is a danger that students will think every investigation must include a hypothesis. Hypothesizing as a skill is important to develop at this grade level but it is also important to develop the understandings of what a hypothesis is and why and how it is developed.

High School Students

At this level, students have acquired more scientific knowledge and experiences and so are able to propose tentative explanations. They can formulate a testable hypothesis and demonstrate the logical connections between the scientific concepts guiding a hypothesis and the design of an experiment (NRC 1996).

Administering the Probe

This probe is best used as is at the middle school and high school levels, particularly if students have been previously exposed to the word hypothesis or its use. Remove any answer choices students might not be familiar with. For example, if they have not encountered if-then reasoning, eliminate this distracter. The probe can also be modified as a simpler version for students in grades 3–5 by leaving out some of the choices and simplifying the descriptions.

K–4 Understandings About Scientific Inquiry

  • Scientific investigations involve asking and answering a question and comparing the answer with what scientists already know about the world.
  • Scientists develop explanations using observations (evidence) and what they already know about the world (scientific knowledge).

5–8 Understandings About Scientific Inquiry

  • Different kinds of questions suggest different kinds of investigations. Some investigations involve observing and describing objects, organisms, or events; some involve collecting specimens; some involve experiments; some involve seeking more information; some involve discovery of new objects and phenomena; and some involve making models.
  • Current scientific knowledge and understanding guide scientific investigations. Different scientific domains employ different methods, core theories, and standards to advance scientific knowledge and understanding.

5–8 Science as a Human Endeavor

  • Science is very much a human endeavor, and the work of science relies on basic human qualities such as reasoning, insight, energy, skill, and creativity.

9–12 Abilities Necessary to Do Scientific Inquiry

  • Identify questions and concepts that guide scientific investigations.*

9–12 Understandings About Scientific Inquiry

  • Scientists usually inquire about how physical, living, or designed systems function. Conceptual principles and knowledge guide scientific inquiries. Historical and current scientific knowledge influence the design and interpretation of investigations and the evaluation of proposed explanations made by other scientists.

*Indicates a strong match between the ideas elicited by the probe and a national standard’s learning goal.

K–2 Scientific Inquiry

  • People can often learn about things around them by just observing those things carefully, but sometimes they can learn more by doing something to the things and noting what happens.

3–5 Scientific Inquiry

  • Scientists’ explanations about what happens in the world come partly from what they observe and partly from what they think. Sometimes scientists have different explanations for the same set of observations. That usually leads to their making more observations to resolve the differences.

6–8 Scientific Inquiry

  • Scientists differ greatly in what phenomena they study and how they go about their work. Although there is no fixed set of steps that all scientists follow, scientific investigations usually involve the collection of relevant evidence, the use of logical reasoning, and the application of imagination in devising hypotheses and explanations to make sense of the collected evidence.*

6–8 Values and Attitudes

  • Even if they turn out not to be true, hypotheses are valuable if they lead to fruitful investigations.*

9–12 Scientific Inquiry

  • Hypotheses are widely used in science for choosing what data to pay attention to and what additional data to seek and for guiding the interpretation of the data (both new and previously available).*

Related Research

  • Students generally have difficulty with explaining how science is conducted because they have had little contact with real scientists. Their familiarity with doing science, even at older ages, is “school science,” which is often not how science is generally conducted in the scientific community (Driver et al. 1996).
  • Despite over 10 years of reform efforts in science education, research still shows that students typically have inadequate conceptions of what science is and what scientists do (Schwartz 2007).
  • Upper elementary school and middle school students may not understand experimentation as a method of testing ideas, but rather as a method of trying things out or producing a desired outcome (AAAS 1993).
  • Middle school students tend to invoke personal experiences as evidence to justify their hypothesis. They seem to think of evidence as selected from what is already known or from personal experience or secondhand sources, not as information produced through experiment (AAAS 1993).

Related NSTA Resources

American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). 1993. Benchmarks for science literacy. New York: Oxford University Press.

Keeley, P. 2005. Science curriculum topic study: Bridging the gap between standards and practice. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.

McLaughlin, J. 2006. A gentle reminder that a hypothesis is never proven correct, nor is a theory ever proven true. Journal of College Science Teaching 36 (1): 60–62.

National Research Council (NRC). 1996. National science education standards. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.

Schwartz, R. 2007. What’s in a word? How word choice can develop (mis)conceptions about the nature of science. Science Scope 31 (2): 42–47.

VanDorn, K., M. Mavita, L. Montes, B. Ackerson, and M. Rockley. 2004. Hypothesis-based learning. Science Scope 27: 24–25.

Suggestions for Instruction and Assessment

  • The “scientific method” is often the first topic students encounter when using textbooks and this can erroneously imply that there is a rigid set of steps that all scientists follow, including the development of a hypothesis. Often the scientific method described in textbooks applies to experimentation, which is only one of many ways scientists conduct their work. Embedding explicit instruction of the various ways to do science in the actual investigations students do throughout the year as well as in their studies of investigations done by scientists is a better approach to understanding how science is done than starting off the year with the scientific method in a way that is devoid of a context through which students can learn the content and process of science.
  • Students often participate in science fairs that may follow a textbook scientific method of posing a question, developing a hypothesis, and so on, that incorrectly results in students “proving” their hypothesis. Make sure students understand that a hypothesis can be disproven, but it is never proven, which implies 100% certainty.
  • Help students understand that science begins with a question. The structure of some school lab reports may lead students to believe that all investigations begin with a hypothesis. While some investigations do begin with a hypothesis, in most cases, they begin with a question. Sometimes it is just a general question.
  • A technique to help students maintain a consistent image of science as inquiry throughout the year by paying more careful attention to the words they use is to create a “caution words” poster or bulletin board (Schwartz 2007). Important words that have specific meanings in science but are often used inappropriately in the science classroom and through everyday language can be posted in the room as a reminder to pay careful attention to how students are using these words. For example, words like hypothesis and scientific method can be posted here. Words that are banned when referring to hypotheses include prove, correct, and true.
  • Use caution when asking students to write lab reports that use the same format regardless of the type of investigation conducted. The format used in writing about an investigation may imply a rigid, fixed process or erroneously misrepresent aspects of science, such as that hypotheses are developed for every scientific investigation.
  • Avoid using hypotheses with younger children when they result in guesses. It is better to start with a question and have students make a prediction about what they think will happen and why. As they acquire more conceptual understanding and experience a variety of observations, they will be better prepared to develop hypotheses that reflect the way science is done.
  • Avoid using “educated guess” as a description for hypothesis. The common meaning of the word guess implies no prior knowledge, experience, or observations.
  • Scaffold hypothesis writing for students by initially having them use words like may in their statements and then formalizing them with if-then statements. For example, students may start with the statement, “The growth of algae may be affected by temperature.” The next step would be to extend this statement to include a testable relationship, such as, “If the temperature of the water increases, then the algae population will increase.” Encourage students to propose a tentative explanation and then consider how they would go about testing the statement.

American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). 1988. Science for all Americans. New York: Oxford University Press.

Driver, R., J. Leach, R. Millar, and P. Scott. 1996. Young people’s images of science. Buckingham, UK: Open University Press.

Pine, J. 1999. To hypothesize or not to hypothesize. In Foundations: A monograph for professionals in science, mathematics, and technology education. Vol. 2. Inquiry: Thoughts, views, and strategies for the K–5 classroom. Arlington, VA: National Science Foundation.

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Hypothesis For Kids

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6th grade definition of hypothesis

Crafting a hypothesis isn’t just for scientists in white lab coats; even young budding researchers can join in the fun! When kids learn to frame their curious wonders as hypothesis statements, they pave the way for exciting discoveries. Our guide breaks down the world of hypothesis writing into kid-friendly chunks, complete with relatable thesis statement examples and easy-to-follow tips. Dive in to spark a love for inquiry and nurture young scientific minds!

What is an example of a Hypothesis for Kids?

Question: Do plants grow taller when they are watered with coffee instead of water?

Hypothesis: If I water a plant with coffee instead of water, then the plant will not grow as tall because coffee might have substances that aren’t good for plants.

This hypothesis is based on a simple observation or question a child might have, and it predicts a specific outcome (the plant not growing as tall) due to a specific condition (being watered with coffee). It’s presented in simple language suitable for kids.

100 Kids Hypothesis Statement Examples

Kids Hypothesis Statement Examples

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Children’s innate curiosity lays the foundation for numerous questions about the world around them. Framing these questions as good hypothesis statements can transform them into exciting learning experiments. Presented below are relatable and straightforward examples crafted especially for young minds, offering them a structured way to articulate their wonders and predictions.

  • Sunlight & Plant Growth : If a plant gets more sunlight, then it will grow taller.
  • Sugary Drinks & Tooth Decay : Drinking sugary drinks daily will lead to faster tooth decay.
  • Chocolates & Energy : Eating chocolate will make me feel more energetic.
  • Moon Phases & Sleep : I’ll sleep more during a full moon night.
  • Homework & Weekend Moods : If I finish my homework on Friday, I’ll be happier over the weekend.
  • Pets & Happiness : Owning a pet will make a child happier.
  • Rain & Worms : Worms come out more after it rains.
  • Shadows & Time of Day : Shadows are longer in the evening than at noon.
  • Snow & School Holidays : More snow means there’s a better chance of school being canceled.
  • Ice Cream & Brain Freeze : Eating ice cream too fast will give me a brain freeze.
  • Video Games & Dreams : Playing video games before bed might make my dreams more vivid.
  • Green Vegetables & Strength : Eating more green vegetables will make me stronger.
  • Bicycles & Balance : The more I practice, the better I’ll get at riding my bike without training wheels.
  • Stars & Wishes : If I wish on the first star I see at night, my wish might come true.
  • Cartoons & Laughing : Watching my favorite cartoon will always make me laugh.
  • Soda & Bone Health : Drinking soda every day will make my bones weaker.
  • Beach Visits & Sunburn : If I don’t wear sunscreen at the beach, I’ll get sunburned.
  • Loud Noises & Pet Behavior : My cat hides when she hears loud noises.
  • Bedtime & Morning Energy : Going to bed early will make me feel more energetic in the morning.
  • Healthy Snacks & Hunger : Eating a healthy snack will keep me full for longer. …
  • Toys & Sharing : The more toys I have, the more I want to share with my friends.
  • Homemade Cookies & Taste : Homemade cookies always taste better than store-bought ones.
  • Books & Imagination : The more books I read, the more adventures I can imagine.
  • Jumping & Height : The more I practice, the higher I can jump.
  • Singing & Mood : Singing my favorite song always makes me happy.
  • Snowmen & Temperature : If the temperature rises, my snowman will melt faster.
  • Costumes & Play : Wearing a costume will make playtime more fun.
  • Gardening & Patience : Waiting for my plants to grow teaches me patience.
  • Night Lights & Sleep : Having a night light makes it easier for me to sleep.
  • Handwriting & Practice : The more I practice, the better my handwriting will become.
  • Painting & Creativity : Using more colors in my painting lets me express my creativity better.
  • Puzzles & Problem Solving : The more puzzles I solve, the better I become at problem-solving.
  • Dancing & Coordination : The more I dance, the more coordinated I will become.
  • Stargazing & Constellations : If I stargaze every night, I’ll recognize more constellations.
  • Bird Watching & Species Knowledge : The more I watch birds, the more species I can identify.
  • Cooking & Skill : If I help in the kitchen often, I’ll become a better cook.
  • Swimming & Confidence : The more I swim, the more confident I become in the water.
  • Trees & Birds’ Nests : The taller the tree, the more likely it is to have birds’ nests.
  • Roller Skating & Balance : If I roller skate every weekend, I’ll improve my balance.
  • Drawing & Observation : The more I draw, the better I become at observing details.
  • Sandcastles & Water : If I use wet sand, I can build a stronger sandcastle.
  • Hiking & Endurance : The more I hike, the farther I can walk without getting tired.
  • Camping & Outdoor Skills : If I go camping often, I’ll learn more about surviving outdoors.
  • Magic Tricks & Practice : The more I practice a magic trick, the better I’ll get at performing it.
  • Stickers & Collection : If I collect stickers, my album will become more colorful.
  • Board Games & Strategy : The more board games I play, the better strategist I’ll become.
  • Pets & Responsibility : The more I take care of my pet, the more responsible I become.
  • Music & Concentration : Listening to calm music while studying will help me concentrate better.
  • Photographs & Memories : The more photos I take, the more memories I can preserve.
  • Rainbows & Rain : If it rains while the sun is out, I might see a rainbow.
  • Museums & Knowledge : Every time I visit a museum, I learn something new.
  • Fruits & Health : Eating more fruits will keep me healthier.
  • Stories & Vocabulary : The more stories I listen to, the more new words I learn.
  • Trees & Fresh Air : The more trees there are in a park, the fresher the air will be.
  • Diary & Feelings : Writing in my diary helps me understand my feelings better.
  • Planets & Telescopes : If I look through a telescope, I’ll see more planets clearly.
  • Crafting & Creativity : The more crafts I make, the more creative I become.
  • Snowflakes & Patterns : Every snowflake has a unique pattern.
  • Jokes & Laughter : The funnier the joke, the louder I’ll laugh.
  • Riddles & Thinking : Solving riddles makes me think harder.
  • Nature Walks & Observations : The quieter I am on a nature walk, the more animals I’ll spot.
  • Building Blocks & Structures : The more blocks I use, the taller my tower will be.
  • Kites & Wind : If there’s more wind, my kite will fly higher.
  • Popcorn & Movie Nights : Watching a movie with popcorn makes it more enjoyable.
  • Stars & Wishes : If I see a shooting star, I should make a wish.
  • Diets & Energy : Eating a balanced diet gives me more energy for playtime.
  • Clay & Sculptures : The more I play with clay, the better my sculptures will be.
  • Insects & Magnifying Glass : Using a magnifying glass will let me see more details of tiny insects.
  • Aquarium Visits & Marine Knowledge : Every time I visit the aquarium, I discover a new marine creature.
  • Yoga & Flexibility : If I practice yoga daily, I’ll become more flexible.
  • Toothpaste & Bubbles : The more toothpaste I use, the more bubbles I’ll get while brushing.
  • Journals & Memories : Writing in my journal every day helps me remember special moments.
  • Piggy Banks & Savings : The more coins I save, the heavier my piggy bank will get.
  • Baking & Measurements : If I measure ingredients accurately, my cake will turn out better.
  • Coloring Books & Art Skills : The more I color, the better I get at staying inside the lines.
  • Picnics & Outdoor Fun : Having a picnic makes a sunny day even more enjoyable.
  • Recycling & Environment : The more I recycle, the cleaner my environment will be.
  • Treasure Hunts & Discoveries : Every treasure hunt has a new discovery waiting.
  • Milk & Bone Health : Drinking milk daily will make my bones stronger.
  • Puppet Shows & Stories : The more puppet shows I watch, the more stories I learn.
  • Field Trips & Learning : Every field trip to a new place teaches me something different.
  • Chores & Responsibility : The more chores I do, the more responsible I feel.
  • Fishing & Patience : Fishing teaches me to be patient while waiting for a catch.
  • Fairy Tales & Imagination : Listening to fairy tales expands my imagination.
  • Homemade Pizza & Toppings : The more toppings I add, the tastier my homemade pizza will be.
  • Gardens & Butterflies : If I plant more flowers, I’ll see more butterflies in my garden.
  • Raincoats & Puddles : Wearing a raincoat lets me jump in puddles without getting wet.
  • Gymnastics & Balance : The more I practice gymnastics, the better my balance will be.
  • Origami & Craft Skills : The more origami I fold, the better my craft skills become.
  • Basketball & Shooting Skills : The more I practice, the better I get at shooting baskets.
  • Fireflies & Night Beauty : Catching fireflies makes summer nights magical.
  • Books & Knowledge : The more books I read, the smarter I become.
  • Pillows & Forts : With more pillows, I can build a bigger fort.
  • Lemonade & Summers : Drinking lemonade makes hot summer days refreshing.
  • Bicycles & Balance : The more I practice, the better I get at riding my bike without training wheels.
  • Pencils & Drawings : If I have colored pencils, my drawings will be more colorful.
  • Ice Cream & Happiness : Eating ice cream always makes me happy.
  • Beach Visits & Shell Collections : Every time I visit the beach, I find new shells for my collection.
  • Jump Ropes & Fitness : The more I jump rope, the fitter I become.
  • Tea Parties & Imagination : Hosting tea parties lets my imagination run wild.

Simple Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids

Simple hypothesis are straightforward predictions that can be tested easily. They help children understand the relationship between two variables. Here are some examples tailored just for kids.

  • Plants & Sunlight : Plants placed near the window will grow taller than those in the dark.
  • Chocolates & Happiness : Eating chocolates can make kids feel happier.
  • Rain & Puddles : The more it rains, the bigger the puddles become.
  • Homework & Learning : Doing homework helps kids understand lessons better.
  • Toys & Sharing : Sharing toys with friends makes playtime more fun.
  • Pets & Care : Taking care of a pet fish helps it live longer.
  • Storytime & Sleep : Listening to a bedtime story helps kids sleep faster.
  • Brushing & Cavity : Brushing teeth daily prevents cavities.
  • Games & Skill : Playing a new game every day improves problem-solving skills.
  • Baking & Patience : Waiting for cookies to bake teaches patience.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids Psychology

Child psychology hypothesis delves into how kids think, behave, and process emotions. These hypotheses help understand the psychological aspects of children’s behaviors.

  • Emotions & Colors : Kids might feel calm when surrounded by blue and energetic with red.
  • Friendship & Self-esteem : Making friends can boost a child’s self-confidence.
  • Learning Styles & Memory : Some kids remember better by seeing, while others by doing.
  • Play & Development : Pretend play is crucial for cognitive development.
  • Rewards & Motivation : Giving small rewards can motivate kids to finish tasks.
  • Music & Mood : Listening to soft music can calm a child’s anxiety.
  • Sibling Bonds & Sharing : Having siblings can influence a child’s willingness to share.
  • Feedback & Performance : Positive feedback can improve a kid’s academic performance.
  • Outdoor Play & Attention Span : Playing outside can help kids concentrate better in class.
  • Dreams & Reality : Kids sometimes can’t differentiate between dreams and reality.

Hypothesis Examples in Kid Friendly Words

Phrasing hypothesis in simple words makes it relatable and easier for kids to grasp. Here are examples with kid-friendly language.

  • Socks & Warmth : Wearing socks will keep my toes toasty.
  • Jumping & Energy : The more I jump, the more energy I feel.
  • Sandcastles & Water : A little water makes my sandcastle stand tall.
  • Stickers & Smiles : Getting a sticker makes my day shine brighter.
  • Rainbows & Rain : After the rain, I might see a rainbow.
  • Slides & Speed : The taller the slide, the faster I go.
  • Hugs & Love : Giving hugs makes me and my friends feel loved.
  • Stars & Counting : The darker it is, the more stars I can count.
  • Paint & Mess : The more paint I use, the messier it gets.
  • Bubbles & Wind : If I blow my bubble wand, the wind will carry them high.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids in Research

Even in a research setting, research hypothesis should be age-appropriate for kids. These examples focus on concepts children might encounter in structured studies.

  • Reading & Vocabulary : Kids who read daily might have a richer vocabulary.
  • Games & Math Skills : Playing number games can improve math skills.
  • Experiments & Curiosity : Conducting science experiments can make kids more curious.
  • Doodles & Creativity : Drawing daily might enhance a child’s creativity.
  • Learning Methods & Retention : Kids who learn with visuals might remember lessons better.
  • Discussions & Understanding : Talking about a topic can deepen understanding.
  • Observation & Knowledge : Observing nature can increase a kid’s knowledge about the environment.
  • Puzzles & Cognitive Skills : Solving puzzles regularly might enhance logical thinking.
  • Music & Rhythmic Abilities : Kids who practice music might develop better rhythm skills.
  • Teamwork & Social Skills : Group projects can boost a child’s social skills.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids Science Fair

Science fairs are a chance for kids to delve into the world of experiments and observations. Here are hypotheses suitable for these events.

  • Magnet & Metals : Certain metals will be attracted to a magnet.
  • Plants & Colored Light : Plants might grow differently under blue and red lights.
  • Eggs & Vinegar : An egg in vinegar might become bouncy.
  • Solar Panels & Sunlight : Solar panels will generate more power on sunny days.
  • Volcanoes & Eruptions : Mixing baking soda and vinegar will make a mini eruption.
  • Mirrors & Reflection : Shiny surfaces can reflect light better than dull ones.
  • Battery & Energy : Fresh batteries will make a toy run faster.
  • Density & Floating : Objects with lower density will float in water.
  • Shadows & Light Source : Moving the light source will change the shadow’s direction.
  • Freezing & States : Water turns solid when kept in the freezer.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Science Experiments

Experiments let kids test out their predictions in real-time. Here are hypotheses crafted for various scientific tests.

  • Salt & Boiling Point : Adding salt will make water boil at a higher temperature.
  • Plants & Music : Playing music might affect a plant’s growth rate.
  • Rust & Moisture : Metals kept in a moist environment will rust faster.
  • Candles & Oxygen : A candle will burn out faster in an enclosed jar.
  • Fruits & Browning : Lemon juice can prevent cut fruits from browning.
  • Yeast & Sugar : Adding sugar will make yeast activate more vigorously.
  • Density & Layers : Different liquids will form layers based on their density.
  • Acids & Bases : Red cabbage juice will change color in acids and bases.
  • Soil Types & Water : Sandy soil will drain water faster than clay.
  • Thermometers & Temperatures : Thermometers will show higher readings in the sun.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids At Home

These hypotheses are crafted for experiments and observations kids can easily make at home, using everyday items.

  • Chores & Time : Setting a timer will make me finish my chores faster.
  • Pets & Behavior : My cat sleeps more during the day than at night.
  • Recycling & Environment : Recycling more can reduce the trash in my home.
  • Cooking & Tastes : Adding spices will change the taste of my food.
  • Family Time & Bonding : Playing board games strengthens our family bond.
  • Cleaning & Organization : Organizing my toys daily will keep my room tidier.
  • Watering & Plant Health : Watering my plant regularly will keep its leaves green.
  • Decor & Mood : Changing the room decor can influence my mood.
  • Journals & Memories : Writing in my journal daily will help me remember fun events.
  • Photos & Growth : Taking monthly photos will show how much I’ve grown.

How do you write a hypothesis for kids? – A Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Start with Curiosity Begin with a question that your child is curious about. This could be something simple, like “Why is the sky blue?” or “Do plants need sunlight to grow?”

Step 2: Observe and Research Before formulating the hypothesis, encourage your child to observe the world around them. If possible, read or watch videos about the topic to gather information. The idea is to get a general understanding of the subject.

Step 3: Keep it Simple For kids, it’s essential to keep the hypothesis straightforward and concise. Use language that is easy to understand and relatable to their age.

Step 4: Make a Predictable Statement Help your child frame their hypothesis as an “If… then…” statement. For example, “If I water a plant every day, then it will grow taller.”

Step 5: Ensure Testability Ensure that the hypothesis can be tested using simple experiments or observations. It should be something they can prove or disprove through hands-on activities.

Step 6: Avoid Certainty Teach kids that a hypothesis is not a definitive statement of fact but rather a best guess based on what they know. It’s okay if the hypothesis turns out to be wrong; the learning process is more important.

Step 7: Review and Refine After forming the initial hypothesis, review it with your child. Discuss if it can be made simpler or clearer. Refinement aids in better understanding and testing.

Step 8: Test the Hypothesis This is the fun part! Plan an experiment or set of observations to test the hypothesis. Whether the hypothesis is proven correct or not, the experience provides a learning opportunity.

Tips for Writing Hypothesis for Kids

  • Encourage Curiosity : Always encourage your child to ask questions about the world around them. It’s the first step to formulating a hypothesis.
  • Use Familiar Language : Use words that the child understands and can relate to. Avoid jargon or technical terms.
  • Make it Fun : Turn the process of forming a hypothesis into a game or a storytelling session. This will keep kids engaged.
  • Use Visual Aids : Kids often respond well to visuals. Drawing or using props can help in understanding and formulating the hypothesis.
  • Stay Open-minded : It’s essential to teach kids that it’s okay if their hypothesis is wrong. The process of discovery and learning is what’s crucial.
  • Practice Regularly : The more often kids practice forming hypotheses, the better they get at it. Use everyday situations as opportunities.
  • Link to Real-life Scenarios : Relate the hypothesis to real-life situations or personal experiences. For instance, if discussing plants, you can relate it to a plant you have at home.
  • Collaborate : Sometimes, two heads are better than one. Encourage group activities where kids can discuss and come up with hypotheses together.
  • Encourage Documentation : Keeping a journal or notebook where they document their hypotheses and results can be a great learning tool.
  • Celebrate Efforts : Regardless of whether the hypothesis was correct, celebrate the effort and the learning journey. This reinforces the idea that the process is more important than the outcome.

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Developing a Hypothesis

Developing a Hypothesis

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6th grade definition of hypothesis

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Hypothesis Examples

A hypothesis has classical been referred to as an educated guess. In the context of the scientific method, this description is somewhat correct. After a problem is identified, the scientist would typically conduct some research about the problem and then make a hypothesis about what will happen during his or her experiment. A better explanation of the purpose of a hypothesis is that a hypothesis is a proposed solution to a problem. Hypotheses have not yet been supported by any measurable data. In fact, we often confuse this term with the word theory in our everyday language. People say that they have theories about different situations and problems that occur in their lives but a theory implies that there has been much data to support the explanation. When we use this term we are actually referring to a hypothesis. For example, someone might say, "I have a theory about why Jane won't go out on a date with Billy." Since there is no data to support this explanation, this is actually a hypothesis. In the world of statistics and science, most hypotheses are written as "if...then" statements. For example someone performing experiments on plant growth might report this hypothesis: "If I give a plant an unlimited amount of sunlight, then the plant will grow to its largest possible size." Hypotheses cannot be proven correct from the data obtained in the experiment, instead hypotheses are either supported by the data collected or refuted by the data collected.

1. If I replace the battery in my car, then my car will get better gas mileage.

2. If I eat more vegetables, then I will lose weight faster.

3. If I add fertilizer to my garden, then my plants will grow faster.

4. If I brush my teeth every day, then I will not develop cavities.

5. If I take my vitamins every day, then I will not feel tired.

6. If 50 mL of water are added to my plants each day and they grow, then adding 100 mL of water each day will make them grow even more.




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50 Interesting 6th Grade Science Fair Projects and Classroom Activities

Award-winning ideas and science demos on every topic.

Collage of 6th grade science fair projects, including a paper plane launcher and compost cups

Sixth grade science covers a wide variety of topics and varies depending on the curriculum. We’ve rounded up the best 6th grade science fair projects to inspire kids, as well as classroom science demos and activities that will grab their attention.

To make it easier to find what you’re looking for, we’ve rated all the projects and activities by difficulty and the materials needed:

Difficulty:

  • Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much anytime
  • Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
  • Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time or effort
  • Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
  • Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
  • Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete

Biology and Earth Science 6th Grade Science Fair Projects

Chemistry 6th grade science fair projects, physics and engineering 6th grade science fair projects, 6th grade science classroom demos and hands-on activities.

For students interested in anatomy, animals, geology, ecology, and more, these are the science fair projects they need!

Find the fastest way to ripen fruit

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

Need to ripen those bananas or peaches in a hurry? Do some research and then experiment to find the fastest way to safely ripen fruit without sacrificing flavor.

Clean up an oil spill

Sixth grade science student using a spoon to try to catch a puddle of oil floating on water

Learn why an oil spill is so devastating for wildlife and the ecosystem with this hands-on activity. Kids experiment to find the best way to clean up oil floating on water and rescue the animals affected by the spill.

Learn more: Oil Spill Cleanup at Kitchen Counter Chronicle

Explore new ways to filter water

Basic water-filtration systems are pretty simple, but they make terrific science fair projects. Experiment with different setups, and find a way to make safe drinking water for people who need it.

Shake it up with earthquake science

Two foam plates with structures built from wood craft sticks and putty on top

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Basic

Build simple model structures, then experiment to see how the actions of earthquakes affect them. Do research into what engineers and architects build in earthquake zones, then perform an experiment to see if you can improve on their findings.

Learn more: Earthquake Science at Love To Know

Grow a better garden using hydroponics

Hydroponics is the hot new gardening trend, but is it really a better way to garden? Find out with a DIY hydroponics gardening setup, comparing the results with traditional container gardening.

Find out if chewing gum really helps improve test scores

One of the more popular 6th grade science fair projects answers the question: Does chewing gum affect test scores? You’ll be surprised by the results!

Create top-notch compost in a cup

Two plastic cups filled with compost and covered in plastic wrap

This is an easy science activity, and you can turn it into a science fair project by experimenting with different mixtures, layering, and conditions for your compost cups.

Learn more: Compost Cups at The Happy Housewife

Learn the best way to repel ants

Do you really need to use poisons to keep ants out of your home? Explore other possible solutions in this science project idea.

Simulate a tsunami and find ways to protect people

Build a model to simulate a tsunami, then come up with potential ways to minimize the damage future waves may cause.

Design a squirrel-proof bird feeder

Squirrels can be real pests at backyard bird feeders, and people are always trying to come up with new solutions to the issue. Can you be the one who finally solves this pesky problem?

Students who love to mix up chemicals and explore the results will enjoy these 6th grade chemistry science fair ideas.

Compare baking powder and baking soda

Baking powder and baking soda have similar names, but do they behave the same when used in a baking recipe? Bake up a few cakes and find out!

Devise a formula for creating the biggest soap bubbles

Soap bubble formulas vary, and some allow you to make bigger bubbles than others. What does it take to make the biggest bubble of them all?

Learn if tea and cola damage teeth

Three eggs next to containers of coffee, tea, and cola, with a permanent marker

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Medium

Use eggshells to explore how various beverages can stain teeth in this classic 6th grade science fair project. (It also teaches important lessons about dental hygiene!)

Learn more: Teeth and Eggs at Education.com

Look for iron in your breakfast cereal

The human body needs iron to be healthy, and many breakfast cereal boxes boast that they contain it. Conduct a 6th grade science fair project to find out if cereals really contain all the iron they say they do.

Find the best way to clean up old coins

Pennies in small cups of liquid labeled coca cola, vinegar + salt, apple juice, water, catsup, and vinegar. Text reads Cleaning Coins Science Experiment. Step by step procedure and explanation.

Use common household items to make old oxidized coins clean and shiny again in this simple chemistry experiment. Form a hypothesis about which method will work best, then do some research to explain the results.

Learn more: Cleaning Coins Experiment at Gally Kids

Explore the effects of various sugars on yeast

Yeast needs sugar to grow, but does the type of sugar matter? And can you use sugar substitutes instead? This is a sweet way to find out!

Grow the biggest carbon sugar snake

Large carbon ash snake growing out of a pan of sand

Tinker with the formula to create the biggest carbon sugar snake possible! This is an engaging project that will wow other students too.

Learn more: Carbon Sugar Snake at KiwiCo

Determine whether soda has more sugar than juice

Which do you think has more sugar, a glass of Pepsi or one of orange juice? Boil away the water to find out in this 6th grade chemistry experiment.

Explore the properties of plastic made from milk

Making milk from plastic is actually pretty simple. Turn it into a science fair project by learning more about its strength, durability, and flexibility, and proposing a practical use for it.

Determine which type of juice has the most vitamin C

Vitamin C might not immediately cure your cold, but it definitely has health benefits. Does orange juice really have the most vitamin C? Conduct an experiment using an iodine titration method to learn the answer.

Calling all tinkerers! Build, create, and engineer a science fair project using physics principals.

Build a powerful paper-plane launcher

Sixth grade science student using a homemade launcher to launch a paper airplane

Here’s a cool 6th grade science fair project. Design and build a paper-airplane launcher that can fly a plane farther than anyone else’s.

Learn more: Paper Plane Launcher at Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls

Figure out the fastest way to cool a soda

Adding ice to a glass of soda cools it off, but it also waters it down. See if you can find a fast way to cool down soda while it’s still in the can or bottle instead.

Launch a bottle rocket higher or more accurately

A basic water-powered rocket isn’t that hard to assemble, but you can turn it into a bona fide 6th grade science fair project by playing around with the design. Figure out how to launch it higher, or change the trajectory to hit a certain target.

Identify the best insulating material

Insulating an item can prevent it from losing heat, like an insulated beverage bottle. What materials are the most effective insulators? How can you find out?

Drop parachutes to test air resistance

Card with text Which is the best parachute? Plastic, paper, cloth. Surrounded by pieces of fabric, plastic, and string.

Use the scientific method to test different types of material and see which makes the most effective parachute. This is an easy project that’s perfect for kids interested in design and engineering.

Learn more: Parachutes at Education.com

Discover which produce best powers a clock

Here’s one of those classic science fair projects that you can really customize to make your own. Try testing out a variety of fruits and veggies, or playing around with connecting several types of produce to see what happens. This inexpensive kit has all the supplies you need.

Engineer the strongest craft stick bridge

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

This is a classic science activity for the classroom, but it works well for 6th grade science fair projects too. Form a hypothesis about the strongest type of bridge design, then build your own models to test it out.

Assemble the best simple motor

A simple motor built from basic materials

Looking for an idea that’s impressive but not too complicated? Build your own simple motor! You only need a few special supplies, including insulated copper wire and neodymium magnets . Turn it into a true 6th grade science fair project by altering the variables to see if you can increase the speed, reduce the noise, or make other improvements.

Learn more: DIY Motor at Home Science Tools

Learn if room temperature affects candle burn rate

This is a simple experiment to conduct, and it’s inexpensive too. Burn birthday candles in a variety of temperatures to see if they burn faster in higher temps.

Determine how much money energy vampires are wasting in your home

So-called “energy vampires” use up energy even when they’re not in active use. And energy costs money. Determine how much energy is being wasted by energy vampires in your home, and figure out how much money you can save on an annual electric bill by getting rid of them.

Engage students with a live demonstration showing the concepts they’re studying. Even better, give them a chance to get hands-on and do the science themselves!

Assemble motorized tiny dancers

AA batteries with tiny wire figures twisted around them, with tutus added to look like ballet dancers

Build a homopolar motor to make little spinning wire dancers. It takes a little practice to get it right, but it’s a really fun way to learn about motors and energy.

Learn more: Tiny Dancers at Babble Dabble Do

Amplify your smartphone with basic supplies

Smartphone amplifier made from paper cups and a toilet paper tube

No Bluetooth speaker? No problem! Build your own from paper cups and a toilet paper tube. This is a 6th grade STEM challenge that’s sure to amaze kids.

Learn more: Cell Phone Speaker at The Mad House

Wear a gene bracelet

Bags of pony beads labeled with various traits like hair color and eye color

This is a neat way to talk about our genes. Have each student add pony beads to their bracelet to represent different traits. Then they can compare their differences and similarities. It’s likely that no two students will have the same bracelets!

Learn more: DNA Gene Bracelet at Pragmatic Mom

Make naked eggs

Sixth grade science student holding a raw egg without a shell

Students dissolve the calcium carbonate eggshell in vinegar and discover the membranes beneath that hold the egg together. It’s a unique and intriguing way to learn about acid-base reactions.

Learn more: Naked Egg at Making Memories With Your Kids

Experiment with naked eggs

Raw egg without a shell that has been dehydrated sitting next to a regular egg

Now, submerge those naked eggs in corn syrup and water to learn about osmosis. The eggs shrink or grow depending on the liquid they’re placed in. So cool!

Learn more: Naked Egg Experiments at Exploratorium

Send water traveling down a string

String running down into a glass partially filled with blue water

Explore the properties of cohesion and adhesion with this simple experiment using only water and cotton string. Expand the learning by trying the same experiment with different materials and liquids.

Learn more: Traveling Water at Rookie Parenting

Launch a two-stage rocket

The rockets used for space flight generally have more than one stage to give them the extra boost they need. This experiment uses balloons to model a two-stage rocket launch, teaching kids about the laws of motion.

Change the color of a liquid in an instant

Want to see your kids gasp in amazement? Perform the iodine clock reaction. You only need a few drugstore chemicals to change the solution from clear to dark blue faster than students can blink.

Levitate a Ping-Pong ball

Sixth grade student holding the cut off top of a plastic bottle with a straw attached. A ping pong ball is floating over the bottle top.

Kids will get a kick out of this experiment, which is really all about Bernoulli’s principle. You only need plastic bottles, bendy straws, and Ping-Pong balls to make the science magic happen.

Learn more: Bernoulli Ping-Pong Ball at Buggy and Buddy

Use a fidget spinner to understand inertia

Series of photos of a child holding a fidget spinner in action. Text reads 3 lights = highest inertia, decreasing inertia, 0 lights = lowest inertia

Learning about the laws of motion? This experiment uses a fidget spinner with three lights to show how mass and torque affect inertia.

Learn more: Fidget Spinner Inertia at Homeschool Momgineer

Build a heart pump model

Simple heart pump model made from plastic bottles, drinking straws, and modeling clay

Students gain a deeper understanding of the cardiovascular system when they construct a working model of a heart ventricle.

Learn more: Heart Pump Model at Tina’s Dynamic Homeschool Plus

Construct a pair of model lungs

Sixth grade student holding model lungs and diaphragm made from a plastic bottle, duct tape, and balloons

Build model lungs using a plastic water bottle and some balloons to learn more about the respiratory system. You can modify the experiment to demonstrate the effects of smoking too.

Learn more: Lungs Model at Surviving a Teacher’s Salary

Dissect an owl pellet

Sixth grade science student wear gloves, holding an owl pellet over a red tray

Dig into an owl’s regurgitated meals (it’s not as gross as it sounds!) to discover what their diet consists of. Owl pellets are readily available online, and kids will be intrigued by what they find.

Learn more: Owl Pellets at Gift of Curiosity

Study sound waves with a spoon

Sixth grade science student holding yarn strings to her ears and looking surprised

With just yarn and a metal spoon, learn how vibrations create sound, and explore the role of conductors.

Learn more: Spoon Sound Waves at KC Edventures With Kids

Make sparks with steel wool

Steel wool sitting in an aluminum tray. The steel wool appears to be on fire.

All you need is steel wool and a 9-volt battery to perform this science demo that’s bound to make their eyes light up! Kids learn about chain reactions, chemical changes, and more.

Learn more: Steel Wool Reaction at The Homeschool Scientist

Create a colorful cell model

Cell model made from a spiky pink hand sanitizer holder, labeled Our Bacterium Prokaryotic Cell

There are lots of cell model projects out there, but this might be one of the cutest ones we’ve seen! And it’s easier to assemble than you might think.

Learn more: Cell Model at Angelic Scalliwags

Extract DNA from a strawberry

It’s surprisingly easy to pull a strand of DNA from this sweet fruit. Teach your kids about genetics and DNA with this 6th grade science project that uses only basic household supplies.

Design a biodome

Model biodome made from plastic bottles and containers filled soil with and plants

There’s so much to learn in this 6th grade science project. Kids build a scale-model biodome to learn more about different environments and ecosystems, decomposition, the food web, and more.

Learn more: Biodome Project at Teach Engineering

Pull an egg into a bottle

Glass bottle with bowl holding three eggs, small glass with matches sitting on a box of matches, and a yellow plastic straw, against a blue background

This is another classic science demo that never fails to delight. Use the power of air pressure to suck a hard-boiled egg into a jar—no hands required.

Learn more: Egg in a Bottle at Left Brain Craft Brain

Make a pH indicator from a vegetable

Making a PH indicator from cabbage for 6th grade scientists.

Who knew such a simple material could be used to determine a substance’s acidity or alkalinity? Your students can explore acids and bases with this simple experiment.

Learn more: Red Cabbage Indicator at Compound Interest

Need supplies for your 6th grade science fair projects and activities? Check out these 24 Science Kits for Middle and High School That Make Hands-On Lessons Easy .

Plus, get all the latest teaching tips and tricks straight to your inbox by signing up for our newsletters .

This roundup includes interesting 6th grade science fair projects, as well as classroom demos and hands-on science activities to try.

You Might Also Like

Collage of 8th grade science fair projects, including building a better lightbulb and guiding a plant through a light maze

50 Top 8th Grade Science Fair Projects and Classroom Activities

Find interesting ideas to engage all learners! Continue Reading

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Iran further increases its stockpile of uranium enriched to near weapons-grade levels, watchdog says

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General, Rafael Grossi, addresses the media after arriving at the Vienna International Airport in Schwechat, Austria, Tuesday, May 7, 2024. The head of the United Nations' atomic watchdog traveled Monday to Iran, where his agency faces increasing difficulty in monitoring the Islamic Republic's rapidly advancing nuclear program as tensions remain high in the wider Middle East over the Israel-Hamas war. (AP Photo/Heinz-Peter Bader)

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General, Rafael Grossi, addresses the media after arriving at the Vienna International Airport in Schwechat, Austria, Tuesday, May 7, 2024. The head of the United Nations’ atomic watchdog traveled Monday to Iran, where his agency faces increasing difficulty in monitoring the Islamic Republic’s rapidly advancing nuclear program as tensions remain high in the wider Middle East over the Israel-Hamas war. (AP Photo/Heinz-Peter Bader)

This is a locator map for Iran with its capital, Tehran. (AP Photo)

FILE - Head of Iran’s atomic energy department Mohammad Eslami waves to media at the conclusion of his joint press conference with International Atomic Energy Organization, IAEA, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, left, after their meeting in the central city of Isfahan, Iran, on May 7, 2024. While Iran’s nuclear program stands at the precipice of tipping over into enriching uranium at weapons-grade levels, Tehran has held quiet, indirect talks with the United States and invited the head of the United Nations’ atomic watchdog into the country for negotiations. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

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VIENNA (AP) — Iran has further increased its stockpile of uranium enriched to near weapons-grade levels, according to a confidential report on Monday by the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, the latest in Tehran’s attempts to steadily exert pressure on the international community.

Iran is seeking to have economic sanctions imposed over the country’s controversial nuclear program lifted in exchange for slowing the program down. The program — as all matters of state in Iran — are under the guidance of Iran’s supreme leader , Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and that likely won’t change in the wake of last week’s helicopter crash that killed Iran’s president and foreign minister.

The report by the International Atomic Energy Agency also comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the wider Middle East over the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Israel and Iran have carried out direct strikes on each other’s territory for the first time last month.

The report, seen by The Associated Press, said that as of May 11, Iran has 142.1 kilograms (313.2 pounds) of uranium enriched up to 60% — an increase of 20.6 kilograms (45.4 pounds) since the last report by the U.N. watchdog in February . Uranium enriched at 60% purity is just a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels of 90%.

In this photo provided by the Swedish government, Johan Floderus reunites with his family at Arlanda airport in Stockholm, Sweden on Saturday, June 15, 2024, after being released from prison in Iran. (Tom Samuelsson/Swedish government/TT News Agency via AP)

By IAEA’s definition, around 42 kilograms (92.5 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% is the amount at which creating one atomic weapon is theoretically possible — if the material is enriched further, to 90%.

Also as of May 11, the report says Iran’s overall stockpile of enriched uranium stands at 6,201.3 kilograms (1,3671.5 pounds), which represents an increase of 675.8 kilograms (1,489.8 pounds) since the IAEA’s previous report.

Iran has maintained its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only, but the IAEA chief, Rafael Mariano Grossi , has previously warned that Tehran has enough uranium enriched to near-weapons-grade levels to make “several” nuclear bombs if it chose to do so. He has acknowledged the U.N. agency cannot guarantee that none of Iran’s centrifuges may have been peeled away for clandestine enrichment .

Tensions have grown between Iran and the IAEA since 2018, when then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the United States from Tehran’s nuclear deal with world powers. Since then, Iran has abandoned all limits the deal put on its program and quickly stepped up enrichment.

Under the original nuclear deal, struck in 2015, Iran was allowed to enrich uranium only up to 3.67% purity, maintain a stockpile of about 300 kilograms and use only very basic IR-1 centrifuges — machines that spin uranium gas at high speed for enrichment purposes.

The 2015 deal saw Tehran agree to limit enrichment of uranium to levels necessary for generating nuclear power in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. At the time, U.N. inspectors were tasked with monitoring the program.

Monday’s report also said that Tehran has not reconsidered its September 2023 decision to bar IAEA inspectors from further monitoring its nuclear program and added that it expects Iran “to do so in the context of the ongoing consultations between the (IAEA) agency and Iran.”

According to the report, Grossi “deeply regrets” Iran’s decision to bar inspectors — and a reversal of that decision “remains essential to fully allow the agency to conduct its verification activities in Iran effectively.”

The deaths of Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian have triggered a pause in the IAEA’s talks with Tehran over improving cooperation, the report acknowledged.

Before the May 19 helicopter crash, Iran had agreed to hold technical negotiations with IAEA on May 20, following a visit by Grossi earlier in the month. But those meetings fell apart due to the crash. Iran then sent a letter on May 21, saying its nuclear team wants to continue discussions in Tehran “on an appropriate date that will be mutually agreed upon,” the report said.

The report also said Iran has still not provided answers to the IAEA’s years-long investigation about the origin and current location of manmade uranium particles found at two locations that Tehran has failed to declare as potential nuclear sites, Varamin and Turquzabad.

It said the IAEA’s request need to be resolved, otherwise the the agency “will not be able to confirm the correctness an completeness of Iran’s declarations” under a safeguards agreement between Tehran and the nuclear watchdog.

The report also said there was no progress so far in reinstalling more monitoring equipment, including cameras, removed in June 2022. Since then, the only recorded data is that of IAEA cameras installed at a centrifuge workshop in the city of Isfahan in May 2023 — although Iran has not provided the IAEA with access to this data.

The IAEA said that on May 21, IAEA inspectors after a delay in April “successfully serviced the cameras at the workshops in Isfahan and the data they had collected since late December 2023 were placed under separate Agency seals and Iranians seals at the locations.”

6th grade definition of hypothesis

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    6th grade definition of hypothesis

VIDEO

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  5. the definition of a hypothesis. the definition of luck. Look it up

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COMMENTS

  1. Hypothesis Lesson for Kids: Definition & Examples

    Problem 1. a) There is a positive relationship between the length of a pendulum and the period of the pendulum. This is a prediction that can be tested by various experiments. Problem 2. c) Diets ...

  2. How to Write a Hypothesis: Lesson for Kids

    Follow this easy formula to write a strong hypothesis: If (I do this), then (this will happen). We call this an if - then statement. Here are some examples of an if - then statement: If I use ...

  3. Science A-Z Hypotheses Grades 5-6 Process Science Unit

    These books contain three developmentally appropriate reading levels for each grade span. Each level of the book conveys similar concepts, images, and vocabulary. Hypotheses. Hypotheses are statements that predict an outcome and provide a potential explanation for an experiment, based on prior knowledge. By using the resources below, students ...

  4. What is hypothesis for Grade 6?

    Unlock the Power of Curiosity with Grade 6 Hypothesis! 🚀 Explore the fascinating world of scientific inquiry as we dive into the secrets behind hypotheses f...

  5. Hypothesis

    A hypothesis is often called an "educated guess," but this is an oversimplification. An example of a hypothesis would be: "If snake species A and B compete for the same resources, and if we ...

  6. The scientific method (article)

    At the core of biology and other sciences lies a problem-solving approach called the scientific method. The scientific method has five basic steps, plus one feedback step: Make an observation. Ask a question. Form a hypothesis, or testable explanation. Make a prediction based on the hypothesis. Test the prediction.

  7. Kids science: Learn about the Scientific Method

    Scientific Method Steps. As described above, there are specific steps that should be taken when using the scientific method. Here is an example of the steps: Ask a question. Gather information and observe (research) Make a hypothesis (guess the answer) Experiment and test your hypothesis. Analyze your test results.

  8. Writing a Hypothesis for Your Science Fair Project

    A hypothesis is a tentative, testable answer to a scientific question. Once a scientist has a scientific question she is interested in, the scientist reads up to find out what is already known on the topic. Then she uses that information to form a tentative answer to her scientific question. Sometimes people refer to the tentative answer as "an ...

  9. science fair project

    An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes. You could put sit and watch the ice cube melt and think you've proved a hypothesis. But you will have missed some important steps. For a good science fair project you need to do quite a bit of research before any experimenting. Start by finding some information about how and why water melts.

  10. Writing a Hypothesis for Your Science Fair Project

    A hypothesis is the best answer to a question based on what is known. Scientists take that best answer and do experiments to see if it still makes sense or if a better answer can be made. When a scientist has a question they want to answer, they research what is already known about the topic. Then, they come up with their best answer to the ...

  11. What Is a Hypothesis?

    A hypothesis, which is a tentative explanation, can lead to a prediction. Predictions forecast the outcome of an experiment but do not include an explanation. Predictions often use if-then statements, just as hypotheses do, but this does not make a prediction a hypothesis. For example, a prediction might take the form of, "If I do [X], then ...

  12. PDF How to Write a Good Hypothesis Using "If… Then… Because…"

    Hypothesis: If _____ (manipulated variable) then _____ (responding variable), because ... 4. thJimmy likes to work with his friend Joe on 7 grade science class labs. However, he notices that he tends to get lower grades when he does work with Joe, because he and ...

  13. Hypothesis For Kids

    Step 8: Test the Hypothesis This is the fun part! Plan an experiment or set of observations to test the hypothesis. Whether the hypothesis is proven correct or not, the experience provides a learning opportunity. Tips for Writing Hypothesis for Kids. Encourage Curiosity: Always encourage your child to ask questions about the world around them ...

  14. Unit 1: Nature of Science

    Hypothesis Method to determine variables: If I change this (IV) then this will result (DV) because explanation. Control Variable: What the scientist wants to remain constant or unchanged (ex. the height and starting point the planes were launched from, the method of measurement, the person who threw the planes, the force that each plane was ...

  15. Developing a Hypothesis Printable (6th

    Developing a Hypothesis. Students learn about scientific hypotheses. They are given tips for developing hypotheses and practice properly wording a hypothesis. Finally, they are presented with a specific problem and must respond to a series of questions that help them arrive at two hypotheses.

  16. A Strong Hypothesis

    The hypothesis is an educated, testable prediction about what will happen. Make it clear. A good hypothesis is written in clear and simple language. Reading your hypothesis should tell a teacher or judge exactly what you thought was going to happen when you started your project. Keep the variables in mind.

  17. Science Definitions 6th Grade Flashcards

    Science Definitions 6th Grade. Term. 1 / 5. hypothesis. Click the card to flip 👆. Definition. 1 / 5. a possible explanation for a set of observations or answer to a scientific question. Click the card to flip 👆.

  18. Definitions For 6th grade science Flashcards

    1.The branch of science dealing with the constitution of the earth and its atmosphere. 2.The various branches of this subject, e.g., geology, oceanography, and meteorology. Life Science. any of the branches of natural science dealing with the structure and behavior of living organisms. Physical science. study the physics and chemistry of Nature.

  19. Hypothesis Examples

    A hypothesis has classical been referred to as an educated guess. In the context of the scientific method, this description is somewhat correct. After a problem is identified, the scientist would typically conduct some research about the problem and then make a hypothesis about what will happen during his or her experiment.

  20. 50 Top 6th Grade Science Fair Projects and Classroom Activities

    Engineer the strongest craft stick bridge. Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic. This is a classic science activity for the classroom, but it works well for 6th grade science fair projects too. Form a hypothesis about the strongest type of bridge design, then build your own models to test it out.

  21. hypothesis

    The meaning of hypothesis. Definition of hypothesis. Best online English dictionaries for children, with kid-friendly definitions, integrated thesaurus for kids, images, and animations. Spanish and Chinese language support available

  22. 6TH GRADE SCIENCE Flashcards

    Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like it identified the hypothesis, look for what's being measured, written as a STATEMENT. Hypothesis must be CLEAR and TESTABLE. and more. ... 6TH GRADE SCIENCE. Flashcards. Learn. Test. Match. Term. 1 / 19. it identified the hypothesis.

  23. Iran further increases its stockpile of uranium enriched to near

    The report, seen by The Associated Press, said that as of May 11, Iran has 142.1 kilograms (313.2 pounds) of uranium enriched up to 60% — an increase of 20.6 kilograms (45.4 pounds) since the last report by the U.N. watchdog in February. Uranium enriched at 60% purity is just a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels of 90%.