Tipsheet #4 Writing the Hypothesis

All scientific research must have a definite purpose or hypothesis. A science fair project is no exception! What question are you trying to answer? What experimental data are you seeking? Be sure to limit your hypothesis to a goal you can attain. (For example, “The Effects of Water Pollution on Algae” may be too broad, while “The Effect of Fertilizer Runoff on Algae is much more feasible.”)

A common mistake students make is choosing a purpose that involves more information, skill and work that they are able to understand, attain or complete in the time available. The choice of a project that requires materials or equipment that are unavailable in your school may mean arranging to work at a local University or science laboratory. This, though possible, entails more effort in scheduling, transportation, and actual work.

The hypothesis (another “brick”) of your project should be stated in one sentence. Difficulty in accomplishing this indicates the need for further refinement or narrowing of the planned study. Several general forms can be used to state your hypothesis:

  1. It is hypothesized that there is a direct relationship between ______and ______.
  1. The hypothesis of this research project is that ______will cause a significant change in ______.
  1. It is hypothesized that ______will result in ______.
  1. If ____(describe the experiment)_ then ___(explain what will happen)______.

Following the forms above, the hypothesis of our sample project might be:

  1. It is hypothesized that there is a direct relationship between the amount of fertilizer runoff and the growth of algae.
  1. The hypothesis of this research project is that high levels of fertilizer runoff will cause a significant change in the growth of algae.
  1. It is hypothesized that an increased quantity of fertilizer runoff will result in different growth rates of algae.
  1. If the amount of fertilizer runoff is increased, then the growth rates of the algae will increase.

An additional benefit to a well-worded hypothesis is the ease with which a title can be created from the hypothesis. The title of your project (another “brick”) should be sufficiently descriptive, but not too long (it should be about 8 words or less). Try writing several titles before you come to a decision. A possible title for the sample project could be The Effects of Fertilizer Runoff on Algae Growth. Remember 8 words or less!

  1. ______
  2. ______
  3. ______

Worksheet #4 – Writing the Hypothesis

Name: ______Date: ______Period: ______

Write the hypothesis in the form that best reflects the goal of your project.

______

Tentative Project Title (8words or less)

______

Teacher Comments:

______

_____ You have not completed this assignment satisfactorily.

Resubmit by ______.

_____ Sounds fine. However, you will have a better project with the following:

______

_____ OK! Well Done!