1.1 Planning and Conducting Experiments

• In the planning phase of an experiment, it is crucial to identify variables, controls, and procedures to ensure results are accurate and reliablereliable
• The dependent variable is measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable
• What are the three characteristics of a good hypothesis?

  Specific, testable, falsifiable
• The evaluation phase of an experiment involves analyzing data, interpreting results, and assessing experimental validity
• The independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or changed by the researcher.manipulated
• A hypothesis states the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable
• Steps in designing a structured experimental procedure

  1️⃣ Identify the independent and dependent variables.

  2️⃣ Determine the control variables.

  3️⃣ Outline step-by-step instructions.

  4️⃣ Specify the data collection method.

  5️⃣ Describe safety precautions.
• Match the data type with its description:

  Quantitative data ↔️ Numerical measurements

  Qualitative data ↔️ Observations and descriptions
• Regardless of the data type, it is important to collect data in a consistent and accurate
• Graphs are less precise than tables but visually highlight trends effectively.


  True
• Order the three key phases of conducting experiments:

  1️⃣ Planning

  2️⃣ Conducting

  3️⃣ Evaluating
• The main purpose of planning and conducting experiments is to test hypotheses, collect data, and draw conclusions based on evidence

  True
• Control variables are kept constant to isolate the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable


  True
• A good hypothesis should clearly state the relationship between the independent and dependent variables


  True
• Control variables are kept constant to ensure changes in the dependent variable are solely due to the independent variable.


  True
• What is an example of a specific hypothesis for plant growth?

  "Increased light exposure will increase plant height."
• Glassware, such as beakers and test tubes, is used for measuring and handling liquids
• What are the three main phases of planning and conducting experiments in GCSE Biology practical assessments?

  Planning, conducting, evaluating
• What is the definition of an independent variable in an experiment?

  Variable changed by researcher
• Give an example of an independent variable in a plant growth experiment

  The amount of light exposure
• A falsifiable hypothesis has the potential to be proven wrong through experimentation.


  True
• What is a microscope used for in biology experiments?

  Observing small structures
• What type of data involves observations and descriptions rather than numerical measurements?

  Qualitative data
• One method to present data in a concise and informative way is a graph
• What are the main purposes of planning and conducting experiments in biology practical assessments?

  To test hypotheses and collect data
• What is the purpose of evaluating experimental results in biology?

  To validate conclusions
• The independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or changed
• A good hypothesis states the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
• In the example of the plant growth experiment, what is the independent variable?

  Light exposure
• Match the material/equipment with its example:

  Glassware ↔️ Beakers

  Measuring Instruments ↔️ Rulers

  Dissection Equipment ↔️ Scalpels

  Microscopes ↔️ For observing small structures
• Ensuring materials are available in the lab is a key consideration when conducting experiments.

  True
• Match the data collection technique with its description:

  Measurements ↔️ Quantitative data using instruments

  Observations ↔️ Qualitative descriptions

  Sampling ↔️ Representative subset of a population
• Choosing the right data presentation method depends on the type of data and the message you want to convey
• Graphs require careful formatting but are less precise than tables


  True
• Steps to ensure safety in GCSE Biology experiments

  1️⃣ Identify potential risks

  2️⃣ Mitigate risks with PPE

  3️⃣ Follow common safety precautions
• Eating or drinking in the lab is permitted as long as food is stored properly

  False
• By prioritizing safety, you can ensure a successful and responsible GCSE Biology practical assessment
• Steps in analyzing and interpreting experimental results

  1️⃣ Organize data using tables or graphs

  2️⃣ Identify trends and outliers

  3️⃣ Draw conclusions based on data

  4️⃣ Evaluate experimental validity
• Match the action with its purpose in data analysis:

  Look for trends ↔️ Identify patterns

  Calculate statistics ↔️ Summarize data

  Use graphs ↔️ Visualize data
• Consistent and accurate data collection ensures reliable and valid results in biology experiments.

  True