Summary IEB Life science/biology practical (paper 3) guidelines and terminology

Life Science Practical Guidelines:

Fair test: The way the experimental apparatus and control are set up so that they differ
in only 1 way.


Aim: "To investigate..." Aim describes the experiment. NOT "To prove..."


Hypothesis: Statement that connects input variable with output variable - short, concise,
both variables, statement (not a question)


Independent variable: Factor that is changed in the experiment.


Dependent variable: Factor being measured after input variable has been enacted


Control: Set up in exactly the same way but without the input variable - to see if the
experiment still works without the input variable (Not applicable to every investigation)


Fixed variable: Things that could change but are kept constant.


Method:
• List equipment
• Specify unit/measurement
• Include substance & quantities
• Bullet point/numbered form
• Keep the aim in focus
• State how to collect results


Results:
• Qualitative: Results are descriptions, not values (eg small, medium, light, dark etc)
• Quantitative: Results are numerical and have values (eg weight, height etc)