Tipsheet #4 Writing the Hypothesis
All scientific research must have a definite purpose or hypothesis. A science fair project is no
exception! What question are you trying to answer? What experimental data are you seeking? Be sure to
limit your hypothesis to a goal you can attain. (For example, “The Effects of Water Pollution on Algae”
may be too broad, while “The Effect of Fertilizer Runoff on Algae is much more feasible.”)
A common mistake students make is choosing a purpose that involves more information, skill and
work that they are able to understand, attain or complete in the time available. The choice of a project that
requires materials or equipment that are unavailable in your school may mean arranging to work at a local
University or science laboratory. This, though possible, entails more effort in scheduling, transportation,
and actual work.
The hypothesis (another “brick”) of your project should be stated in one sentence. Difficulty
in accomplishing this indicates the need for further refinement or narrowing of the planned study. Several
general forms can be used to state your hypothesis:
1.
It is hypothesized that there is a direct relationship between _______________ and
_______________.
2.
The hypothesis of this research project is that _________________ will cause a significant change
in ________________________.
3.
It is hypothesized that ___________________ will result in __________________.
4.
If ____(describe the experiment)_ then ___(explain what will happen)______.
Following the forms above, the hypothesis of our sample project might be:
1. It is hypothesized that there is a direct relationship between the amount of fertilizer runoff and the
growth of algae.
2.
The hypothesis of this research project is that high levels of fertilizer runoff will cause a
significant change in the growth of algae.
3.
It is hypothesized that an increased quantity of fertilizer runoff will result in different growth rates
of algae.
4.
If the amount of fertilizer runoff is increased, then the growth rates of the algae will increase.
An additional benefit to a well-worded hypothesis is the ease with which a title can be created from the
hypothesis. The title of your project (another “brick”) should be sufficiently descriptive, but not too long
(it should be about 8 words or less). Try writing several titles before you come to a decision. A possible
title for the sample project could be The Effects of Fertilizer Runoff on Algae Growth. Remember 8
words or less!
1. __________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
2. __________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
3. __________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Worksheet #4 – Writing the Hypothesis
Name: _________________
Date: _____________
Period: ______
Write the hypothesis in the form that best reflects the goal of your project.
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
Tentative Project Title (8words or less)
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
Teacher Comments:
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
_____ You have not completed this assignment satisfactorily.
Resubmit by ______.
_____ Sounds fine. However, you will have a better project with the following:
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
_____ OK! Well Done!