Science is often mistaken for a fixed set of facts to memorize, when it
is really a 'way of knowing'. Scientific research begins with a
question. This question often grows out of a observation or general
curiosity before it is narrowed into something specific, answerable,
grounded in what can be measured.
To investigate the question, a researcher develops a
hypothesis - a proposed explanation based on prior
knowledge or existing evidence. A hypothesis isn’t a random guess; it
reflects reasoning about what might be true and what outcome would be
expected if that idea is correct. Crucially, a hypothesis must be
testable. This means it can be examined through experimentation, data
collection, or observation in a way that can confirm or challenge the
idea. It must make predictions that can be supported or refuted using
available tools and technologies.
Sort the following hypotheses according to whether they're testable or
not.
Click or tap on a statement, then on the appropriate category to place
it.
Hospital patients who have access to a window view recover faster after
surgery.
Drinking at least two liters of water daily decreases the frequency of
headaches in teenagers.
The best way to stay healthy is to eat organic food.
Receiving an annual flu shot reduces the likelihood of hospitalization
for influenza.
Antibiotic resistance is the most dangerous health problem in the world.
Positive energy helps patients heal.
Natural remedies are better than prescription medicine.
Patients who complete physical therapy after knee surgery regain
strength faster than those who do not.
Elderly adults who take vitamin D supplements experience fewer bone
fractures.
Testable
Non-Testable
This can be tested by comparing hospitalization rates between vaccinated
and unvaccinated groups.
This can be tested by tracking water intake and headache frequency over
time.
This can be tested by measuring recovery times for patients with and
without window views.
This can be tested by comparing fracture rates between those who take
supplements and those who don’t.
This can be tested by measuring strength recovery times for patients
with and without therapy.
“Better” is vague and subjective, making it un-testable.
“Most dangerous” is a value judgment, not an objective measure.
“Best way” is subjective; what counts as “best” depends on personal
values and priorities, not a single measurable outcome.
“Positive energy” is undefined and can mean different things to
different people, making it impossible to measure scientifically.