Test on The Scientific Method and Experimental Design

Question 1: Controlling the size of the beaker in the coffee dissolution investigation is considered a fixed variable.

A. Yes

B. No

Explanation: The study materials explicitly state that 'Controlling the size of the beaker in this investigation would NOT have had an impact on the outcome and is thus not considered a fixed variable.' Fixed variables must have a direct impact on the outcome of the investigation.

Question 2: According to the provided study materials, which characteristic describes an independent variable in a scientific investigation?

A. It is the result or outcome of the investigation.

B. It is the variable that the learner can control, influence, and change.

C. It is a factor that must be carefully controlled to ensure accurate results.

D. It is the cause of the dependent variable.

Explanation: The study materials define an independent variable as 'The variable that the learner can control, influence and change' and also state that it is 'the cause of the dependent variable.' Therefore, both 'It is the variable that the learner can control, influence, and change' and 'It is the cause of the dependent variable' accurately describe an independent variable. 'It is the result or outcome of the investigation' describes a dependent variable, and 'It is a factor that must be carefully controlled to ensure accurate results' describes a controlled/fixed variable.

Question 3: Is the purpose of a control to compare the results of the investigation with a known result?

A. Yes

B. No

Explanation: The study materials state that 'The purpose of a control is to compare the results of the investigation with a known result.'

Question 4: According to the study materials, what is a crucial requirement when listing apparatus for an investigation?

A. The list should include only the names of equipment, without specifying quantities or sizes.

B. It is essential to be as specific as possible, for instance, by stating the volume of a beaker or syringe.

C. A general list of equipment types is sufficient, as exact measurements are not usually required.

D. Apparatus should be listed broadly to allow for adaptation during the experiment.

Explanation: The study materials state: 'Always be as specific as possible (e.g. give the volume of the beaker / syringe that you will need).'

Question 5: Students receive the IEB Method rubric for the PAT in the exam.

A. Yes

B. No

Explanation: The study materials explicitly state that students will not receive the IEB Method rubric in the exam, requiring them to be familiar with what is required instead.