Scientific Method & Experiments

Senior High 8 questions

What scientific method & experiments means

You learn how to plan a fair experiment, choose what to change, and keep other factors the same. This helps you judge results properly and explain them with evidence.

What you will practise

Identify the independent, dependent, and control variables
Choose a suitable control group for comparison
Predict outcomes using a clear, testable hypothesis
Interpret results and decide whether they support the hypothesis

Before you start

You should already know basic lab apparatus and simple measurement terms such as mass, time, temperature, and length. It also helps to understand what observations and results mean.

Not confident yet? Work through Lab Safety & Apparatus first.

Worked example

One question from this skill's own question bank, shown with its full working.

Question

A hypothesis is:

A proven fact
A testable prediction or explanation
A conclusion
A measurement

Answer: A testable prediction or explanation

Working: A hypothesis is tested by experiment; results support or reject it.

Common mistakes to avoid

Changing more than one variable at once. Keep only one factor different in a fair test.
Mixing up the independent and dependent variables. The independent variable is changed; the dependent variable is measured.
Forgetting the control group. Use it as the baseline for comparison.
Writing a vague idea instead of a testable hypothesis. State a clear prediction that can be checked by experiment.

Curriculum and exam alignment

Ghana GES SHS syllabusWASSCE

This skill usually appears in SHS 1-3 science work on scientific enquiry, investigation design, and data interpretation. It supports the practical thinking needed for WASSCE-style questions on variables, fair tests, and experimental conclusions.

Curriculum notes are a general guide to where this work normally sits. Always check the syllabus your school or examination body is currently using.

Related skills

Other Practical & Laboratory Skills skills in Science, at the same point in the course.

Lab Safety & ApparatusSHS

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