NAME:______DATE:______PERIOD:______
Control Group:
*is the group in which you do NOT do the independent variable (the words following “if” in you hypothesis)
Experimental Group:
*is the group in which you DO the independent variable (the words after “if” in the hypothesis)
When you compare the control and experimental group, the only difference between them should be the independent variable. Using a control and experimental group allows you to compare your results to a normal condition.
Examples:
1. If I drink coffee in the morning, then I will drive more safely on the way to work.
Control Group: I will NOT drink coffee before work. I do NOT do the independent variable (the thing after the “if” in the hypothesis).
Experimental Group: I WILL drive to work after drinking coffee. I DO the independent variable (the thing after the “if” in the hypothesis).
2. If I get my teeth cleaned every six months, then I will have fewer cavities.
Control Group: I will NOT get my teeth cleaned every six months. I do NOT do the independent variable (the thing after the “if” in the hypothesis).
Experimental Group: I WILL get my teeth cleaned every six months. I DO the independent variable (the thing after the “if” in the hypothesis).
3. If I feed my guinea pig a healthy diet, then he will live longer.
Control Group:
Why?
Experimental Group:
Why?
4. If I change the oil in my car every 2000 miles, then it will last for 10 years.
Control Group:
Why?
Experimental Group:
Why?
5. If I add an extra egg to my cake batter, then it will make a moister cake.
Control Group:
Why?
Experimental Group:
Why?
6. If I use the Warm setting on my blow dryer instead of Hot, then I will have fewer split ends.
Control Group:
Why?
Experimental Group:
Why?
2