Identifying Variables

1
Identifying Variables
2
3 types of Variables

• A manipulated (independent) variable
• A responding (dependent) variable
• Some control variables

3
Manipulated Variable

• Something that is changed by the scientist
• What is tested
• Manipulate means to change
• Also called Independent Variable

4
Responding Variable

• Something that might be affected by the change in
  the manipulated variable
• What is observed
• What is measured
• The data collected during the investigation
• Also called the Dependent Variable (because it
  depends on what was changed)

5
Control Variables

• A variable that is not changed
• Also called constants
• How things are in their natural state
• Allow for a fair test

6
Example

• Students of different ages were given the same
  jigsaw puzzle to put together. They were timed
  to see how long it took to finish the puzzle.
• Manipulated Age of students
• Responding Time it took for them to finish
  puzzle
• Control Same puzzle

7
Identify the Variables

• Experiment The higher the temperature of water,
  the faster an egg will boil.
• What are the variables?
• Manipulated- Temperature of water
• Responding- Time to boil an egg
• Control- Type of egg