hypothesis definition for a kid

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Hypothesis facts for kids

A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for some event or problem.

Cardinal Bellarmine gave a well known example of the older sense of the word in his warning to Galileo in the early 17th century: that he must not treat the motion of the Earth as a reality, but merely as a hypothesis.

Today, a hypothesis refers to an idea that needs to be tested . A hypothesis needs more work by the researcher in order to check it. A tested hypothesis that works, may become part of a theory or become a theory itself. The testing should be an attempt to prove the hypothesis is wrong. That is, there should be a way to falsify the hypothesis, at least in principle.

People often call a hypothesis an "educated guess".

Experimenters may test and reject several hypotheses before solving the problem.

A 'working hypothesis' is just a rough kind of hypothesis that is provisionally accepted as a basis for further research. The hope is that a theory will be produced, even if the hypothesis ultimately fails.

Hypotheses are especially important in science. Several philosophers have said that without hypotheses there could be no science. In recent years, philosophers of science have tried to integrate the various approaches to testing hypotheses, and the scientific method in general, to form a more complete system. The point is that hypotheses are suggested ideas which are then tested by experiments or observations .

In statistics , people talk about correlation : correlation is how closely related two events or phenomena are. A proposition (or hypothesis) that two events are related cannot be tested in the same way as a law of nature is tested. An example would be to see if some drug is effective to treat a given medical condition. Even if there is a strong correlation that indicates that this is the case, some samples would still not fit the hypothesis.

There are two hypotheses in statistical tests, called the null hypothesis and the alternative hypothesis. The null hypothesis states that there is no link between the phenomena. The alternative hypothesis states that there is some kind of link. The alternative hypothesis may take several forms. It can be two-sided (for example: there is some effect, in a yet unknown direction) or one-sided (the direction of the supposed relation, positive or negative, is fixed in advance).

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Definition of hypothesis

Did you know.

The Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory

A hypothesis is an assumption, an idea that is proposed for the sake of argument so that it can be tested to see if it might be true.

In the scientific method, the hypothesis is constructed before any applicable research has been done, apart from a basic background review. You ask a question, read up on what has been studied before, and then form a hypothesis.

A hypothesis is usually tentative; it's an assumption or suggestion made strictly for the objective of being tested.

A theory , in contrast, is a principle that has been formed as an attempt to explain things that have already been substantiated by data. It is used in the names of a number of principles accepted in the scientific community, such as the Big Bang Theory . Because of the rigors of experimentation and control, it is understood to be more likely to be true than a hypothesis is.

In non-scientific use, however, hypothesis and theory are often used interchangeably to mean simply an idea, speculation, or hunch, with theory being the more common choice.

Since this casual use does away with the distinctions upheld by the scientific community, hypothesis and theory are prone to being wrongly interpreted even when they are encountered in scientific contexts—or at least, contexts that allude to scientific study without making the critical distinction that scientists employ when weighing hypotheses and theories.

The most common occurrence is when theory is interpreted—and sometimes even gleefully seized upon—to mean something having less truth value than other scientific principles. (The word law applies to principles so firmly established that they are almost never questioned, such as the law of gravity.)

This mistake is one of projection: since we use theory in general to mean something lightly speculated, then it's implied that scientists must be talking about the same level of uncertainty when they use theory to refer to their well-tested and reasoned principles.

The distinction has come to the forefront particularly on occasions when the content of science curricula in schools has been challenged—notably, when a school board in Georgia put stickers on textbooks stating that evolution was "a theory, not a fact, regarding the origin of living things." As Kenneth R. Miller, a cell biologist at Brown University, has said , a theory "doesn’t mean a hunch or a guess. A theory is a system of explanations that ties together a whole bunch of facts. It not only explains those facts, but predicts what you ought to find from other observations and experiments.”

While theories are never completely infallible, they form the basis of scientific reasoning because, as Miller said "to the best of our ability, we’ve tested them, and they’ve held up."

• proposition
• supposition

hypothesis , theory , law mean a formula derived by inference from scientific data that explains a principle operating in nature.

hypothesis implies insufficient evidence to provide more than a tentative explanation.

theory implies a greater range of evidence and greater likelihood of truth.

law implies a statement of order and relation in nature that has been found to be invariable under the same conditions.

Examples of hypothesis in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hypothesis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Greek, from hypotithenai to put under, suppose, from hypo- + tithenai to put — more at do

1641, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing hypothesis

• counter - hypothesis
• nebular hypothesis
• null hypothesis
• planetesimal hypothesis
• Whorfian hypothesis

Articles Related to hypothesis

This is the Difference Between a...

This is the Difference Between a Hypothesis and a Theory

In scientific reasoning, they're two completely different things

Dictionary Entries Near hypothesis

hypothermia

hypothesize

Cite this Entry

“Hypothesis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypothesis. Accessed 1 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

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What is a hypothesis?

No.  A hypothesis is sometimes described as an educated guess.  That's not the same thing as a guess and not really a good description of a hypothesis either.  Let's try working through an example.

If you put an ice cube on a plate and place it on the table, what will happen?  A very young child might guess that it will still be there in a couple of hours.  Most people would agree with the hypothesis that:

An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes.

You could put sit and watch the ice cube melt and think you've proved a hypothesis.  But you will have missed some important steps.

For a good science fair project you need to do quite a bit of research before any experimenting.  Start by finding some information about how and why water melts.  You could read a book, do a bit of Google searching, or even ask an expert.  For our example, you could learn about how temperature and air pressure can change the state of water.  Don't forget that elevation above sea level changes air pressure too.

Now, using all your research, try to restate that hypothesis.

An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes in a room at sea level with a temperature of 20C or 68F.

But wait a minute.  What is the ice made from?  What if the ice cube was made from salt water, or you sprinkled salt on a regular ice cube?  Time for some more research.  Would adding salt make a difference?  Turns out it does.  Would other chemicals change the melting time?

Using this new information, let's try that hypothesis again.

An ice cube made with tap water will melt in less than 30 minutes in a room at sea level with a temperature of 20C or 68F.

Does that seem like an educated guess?  No, it sounds like you are stating the obvious.

At this point, it is obvious only because of your research.  You haven't actually done the experiment.  Now it's time to run the experiment to support the hypothesis.

A hypothesis isn't an educated guess.  It is a tentative explanation for an observation, phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation.

Once you do the experiment and find out if it supports the hypothesis, it becomes part of scientific theory.

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Hypothesis For Kids

Crafting a hypothesis isn’t just for scientists in white lab coats; even young budding researchers can join in the fun! When kids learn to frame their curious wonders as hypothesis statements, they pave the way for exciting discoveries. Our guide breaks down the world of hypothesis writing into kid-friendly chunks, complete with relatable thesis statement examples and easy-to-follow tips. Dive in to spark a love for inquiry and nurture young scientific minds!

What is an example of a Hypothesis for Kids?

Question: Do plants grow taller when they are watered with coffee instead of water?

Hypothesis: If I water a plant with coffee instead of water, then the plant will not grow as tall because coffee might have substances that aren’t good for plants.

This hypothesis is based on a simple observation or question a child might have, and it predicts a specific outcome (the plant not growing as tall) due to a specific condition (being watered with coffee). It’s presented in simple language suitable for kids.

100 Kids Hypothesis Statement Examples

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Children’s innate curiosity lays the foundation for numerous questions about the world around them. Framing these questions as good hypothesis statements can transform them into exciting learning experiments. Presented below are relatable and straightforward examples crafted especially for young minds, offering them a structured way to articulate their wonders and predictions.

• Sunlight & Plant Growth : If a plant gets more sunlight, then it will grow taller.
• Sugary Drinks & Tooth Decay : Drinking sugary drinks daily will lead to faster tooth decay.
• Chocolates & Energy : Eating chocolate will make me feel more energetic.
• Moon Phases & Sleep : I’ll sleep more during a full moon night.
• Homework & Weekend Moods : If I finish my homework on Friday, I’ll be happier over the weekend.
• Pets & Happiness : Owning a pet will make a child happier.
• Rain & Worms : Worms come out more after it rains.
• Shadows & Time of Day : Shadows are longer in the evening than at noon.
• Snow & School Holidays : More snow means there’s a better chance of school being canceled.
• Ice Cream & Brain Freeze : Eating ice cream too fast will give me a brain freeze.
• Video Games & Dreams : Playing video games before bed might make my dreams more vivid.
• Green Vegetables & Strength : Eating more green vegetables will make me stronger.
• Bicycles & Balance : The more I practice, the better I’ll get at riding my bike without training wheels.
• Stars & Wishes : If I wish on the first star I see at night, my wish might come true.
• Cartoons & Laughing : Watching my favorite cartoon will always make me laugh.
• Soda & Bone Health : Drinking soda every day will make my bones weaker.
• Beach Visits & Sunburn : If I don’t wear sunscreen at the beach, I’ll get sunburned.
• Loud Noises & Pet Behavior : My cat hides when she hears loud noises.
• Bedtime & Morning Energy : Going to bed early will make me feel more energetic in the morning.
• Healthy Snacks & Hunger : Eating a healthy snack will keep me full for longer. …
• Toys & Sharing : The more toys I have, the more I want to share with my friends.
• Homemade Cookies & Taste : Homemade cookies always taste better than store-bought ones.
• Books & Imagination : The more books I read, the more adventures I can imagine.
• Jumping & Height : The more I practice, the higher I can jump.
• Singing & Mood : Singing my favorite song always makes me happy.
• Snowmen & Temperature : If the temperature rises, my snowman will melt faster.
• Costumes & Play : Wearing a costume will make playtime more fun.
• Gardening & Patience : Waiting for my plants to grow teaches me patience.
• Night Lights & Sleep : Having a night light makes it easier for me to sleep.
• Handwriting & Practice : The more I practice, the better my handwriting will become.
• Painting & Creativity : Using more colors in my painting lets me express my creativity better.
• Puzzles & Problem Solving : The more puzzles I solve, the better I become at problem-solving.
• Dancing & Coordination : The more I dance, the more coordinated I will become.
• Stargazing & Constellations : If I stargaze every night, I’ll recognize more constellations.
• Bird Watching & Species Knowledge : The more I watch birds, the more species I can identify.
• Cooking & Skill : If I help in the kitchen often, I’ll become a better cook.
• Swimming & Confidence : The more I swim, the more confident I become in the water.
• Trees & Birds’ Nests : The taller the tree, the more likely it is to have birds’ nests.
• Roller Skating & Balance : If I roller skate every weekend, I’ll improve my balance.
• Drawing & Observation : The more I draw, the better I become at observing details.
• Sandcastles & Water : If I use wet sand, I can build a stronger sandcastle.
• Hiking & Endurance : The more I hike, the farther I can walk without getting tired.
• Camping & Outdoor Skills : If I go camping often, I’ll learn more about surviving outdoors.
• Magic Tricks & Practice : The more I practice a magic trick, the better I’ll get at performing it.
• Stickers & Collection : If I collect stickers, my album will become more colorful.
• Board Games & Strategy : The more board games I play, the better strategist I’ll become.
• Pets & Responsibility : The more I take care of my pet, the more responsible I become.
• Music & Concentration : Listening to calm music while studying will help me concentrate better.
• Photographs & Memories : The more photos I take, the more memories I can preserve.
• Rainbows & Rain : If it rains while the sun is out, I might see a rainbow.
• Museums & Knowledge : Every time I visit a museum, I learn something new.
• Fruits & Health : Eating more fruits will keep me healthier.
• Stories & Vocabulary : The more stories I listen to, the more new words I learn.
• Trees & Fresh Air : The more trees there are in a park, the fresher the air will be.
• Diary & Feelings : Writing in my diary helps me understand my feelings better.
• Planets & Telescopes : If I look through a telescope, I’ll see more planets clearly.
• Crafting & Creativity : The more crafts I make, the more creative I become.
• Snowflakes & Patterns : Every snowflake has a unique pattern.
• Jokes & Laughter : The funnier the joke, the louder I’ll laugh.
• Riddles & Thinking : Solving riddles makes me think harder.
• Nature Walks & Observations : The quieter I am on a nature walk, the more animals I’ll spot.
• Building Blocks & Structures : The more blocks I use, the taller my tower will be.
• Kites & Wind : If there’s more wind, my kite will fly higher.
• Popcorn & Movie Nights : Watching a movie with popcorn makes it more enjoyable.
• Stars & Wishes : If I see a shooting star, I should make a wish.
• Diets & Energy : Eating a balanced diet gives me more energy for playtime.
• Clay & Sculptures : The more I play with clay, the better my sculptures will be.
• Insects & Magnifying Glass : Using a magnifying glass will let me see more details of tiny insects.
• Aquarium Visits & Marine Knowledge : Every time I visit the aquarium, I discover a new marine creature.
• Yoga & Flexibility : If I practice yoga daily, I’ll become more flexible.
• Toothpaste & Bubbles : The more toothpaste I use, the more bubbles I’ll get while brushing.
• Journals & Memories : Writing in my journal every day helps me remember special moments.
• Piggy Banks & Savings : The more coins I save, the heavier my piggy bank will get.
• Baking & Measurements : If I measure ingredients accurately, my cake will turn out better.
• Coloring Books & Art Skills : The more I color, the better I get at staying inside the lines.
• Picnics & Outdoor Fun : Having a picnic makes a sunny day even more enjoyable.
• Recycling & Environment : The more I recycle, the cleaner my environment will be.
• Treasure Hunts & Discoveries : Every treasure hunt has a new discovery waiting.
• Milk & Bone Health : Drinking milk daily will make my bones stronger.
• Puppet Shows & Stories : The more puppet shows I watch, the more stories I learn.
• Field Trips & Learning : Every field trip to a new place teaches me something different.
• Chores & Responsibility : The more chores I do, the more responsible I feel.
• Fishing & Patience : Fishing teaches me to be patient while waiting for a catch.
• Fairy Tales & Imagination : Listening to fairy tales expands my imagination.
• Homemade Pizza & Toppings : The more toppings I add, the tastier my homemade pizza will be.
• Gardens & Butterflies : If I plant more flowers, I’ll see more butterflies in my garden.
• Raincoats & Puddles : Wearing a raincoat lets me jump in puddles without getting wet.
• Gymnastics & Balance : The more I practice gymnastics, the better my balance will be.
• Origami & Craft Skills : The more origami I fold, the better my craft skills become.
• Basketball & Shooting Skills : The more I practice, the better I get at shooting baskets.
• Fireflies & Night Beauty : Catching fireflies makes summer nights magical.
• Books & Knowledge : The more books I read, the smarter I become.
• Pillows & Forts : With more pillows, I can build a bigger fort.
• Lemonade & Summers : Drinking lemonade makes hot summer days refreshing.
• Bicycles & Balance : The more I practice, the better I get at riding my bike without training wheels.
• Pencils & Drawings : If I have colored pencils, my drawings will be more colorful.
• Ice Cream & Happiness : Eating ice cream always makes me happy.
• Beach Visits & Shell Collections : Every time I visit the beach, I find new shells for my collection.
• Jump Ropes & Fitness : The more I jump rope, the fitter I become.
• Tea Parties & Imagination : Hosting tea parties lets my imagination run wild.

Simple Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids

Simple hypothesis are straightforward predictions that can be tested easily. They help children understand the relationship between two variables. Here are some examples tailored just for kids.

• Plants & Sunlight : Plants placed near the window will grow taller than those in the dark.
• Chocolates & Happiness : Eating chocolates can make kids feel happier.
• Rain & Puddles : The more it rains, the bigger the puddles become.
• Homework & Learning : Doing homework helps kids understand lessons better.
• Toys & Sharing : Sharing toys with friends makes playtime more fun.
• Pets & Care : Taking care of a pet fish helps it live longer.
• Storytime & Sleep : Listening to a bedtime story helps kids sleep faster.
• Brushing & Cavity : Brushing teeth daily prevents cavities.
• Games & Skill : Playing a new game every day improves problem-solving skills.
• Baking & Patience : Waiting for cookies to bake teaches patience.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids Psychology

Child psychology hypothesis delves into how kids think, behave, and process emotions. These hypotheses help understand the psychological aspects of children’s behaviors.

• Emotions & Colors : Kids might feel calm when surrounded by blue and energetic with red.
• Friendship & Self-esteem : Making friends can boost a child’s self-confidence.
• Learning Styles & Memory : Some kids remember better by seeing, while others by doing.
• Play & Development : Pretend play is crucial for cognitive development.
• Rewards & Motivation : Giving small rewards can motivate kids to finish tasks.
• Music & Mood : Listening to soft music can calm a child’s anxiety.
• Sibling Bonds & Sharing : Having siblings can influence a child’s willingness to share.
• Feedback & Performance : Positive feedback can improve a kid’s academic performance.
• Outdoor Play & Attention Span : Playing outside can help kids concentrate better in class.
• Dreams & Reality : Kids sometimes can’t differentiate between dreams and reality.

Hypothesis Examples in Kid Friendly Words

Phrasing hypothesis in simple words makes it relatable and easier for kids to grasp. Here are examples with kid-friendly language.

• Socks & Warmth : Wearing socks will keep my toes toasty.
• Jumping & Energy : The more I jump, the more energy I feel.
• Sandcastles & Water : A little water makes my sandcastle stand tall.
• Stickers & Smiles : Getting a sticker makes my day shine brighter.
• Rainbows & Rain : After the rain, I might see a rainbow.
• Slides & Speed : The taller the slide, the faster I go.
• Hugs & Love : Giving hugs makes me and my friends feel loved.
• Stars & Counting : The darker it is, the more stars I can count.
• Paint & Mess : The more paint I use, the messier it gets.
• Bubbles & Wind : If I blow my bubble wand, the wind will carry them high.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids in Research

Even in a research setting, research hypothesis should be age-appropriate for kids. These examples focus on concepts children might encounter in structured studies.

• Reading & Vocabulary : Kids who read daily might have a richer vocabulary.
• Games & Math Skills : Playing number games can improve math skills.
• Experiments & Curiosity : Conducting science experiments can make kids more curious.
• Doodles & Creativity : Drawing daily might enhance a child’s creativity.
• Learning Methods & Retention : Kids who learn with visuals might remember lessons better.
• Discussions & Understanding : Talking about a topic can deepen understanding.
• Observation & Knowledge : Observing nature can increase a kid’s knowledge about the environment.
• Puzzles & Cognitive Skills : Solving puzzles regularly might enhance logical thinking.
• Music & Rhythmic Abilities : Kids who practice music might develop better rhythm skills.
• Teamwork & Social Skills : Group projects can boost a child’s social skills.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids Science Fair

Science fairs are a chance for kids to delve into the world of experiments and observations. Here are hypotheses suitable for these events.

• Magnet & Metals : Certain metals will be attracted to a magnet.
• Plants & Colored Light : Plants might grow differently under blue and red lights.
• Eggs & Vinegar : An egg in vinegar might become bouncy.
• Solar Panels & Sunlight : Solar panels will generate more power on sunny days.
• Volcanoes & Eruptions : Mixing baking soda and vinegar will make a mini eruption.
• Mirrors & Reflection : Shiny surfaces can reflect light better than dull ones.
• Battery & Energy : Fresh batteries will make a toy run faster.
• Density & Floating : Objects with lower density will float in water.
• Shadows & Light Source : Moving the light source will change the shadow’s direction.
• Freezing & States : Water turns solid when kept in the freezer.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Science Experiments

Experiments let kids test out their predictions in real-time. Here are hypotheses crafted for various scientific tests.

• Salt & Boiling Point : Adding salt will make water boil at a higher temperature.
• Plants & Music : Playing music might affect a plant’s growth rate.
• Rust & Moisture : Metals kept in a moist environment will rust faster.
• Candles & Oxygen : A candle will burn out faster in an enclosed jar.
• Fruits & Browning : Lemon juice can prevent cut fruits from browning.
• Yeast & Sugar : Adding sugar will make yeast activate more vigorously.
• Density & Layers : Different liquids will form layers based on their density.
• Acids & Bases : Red cabbage juice will change color in acids and bases.
• Soil Types & Water : Sandy soil will drain water faster than clay.
• Thermometers & Temperatures : Thermometers will show higher readings in the sun.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids At Home

These hypotheses are crafted for experiments and observations kids can easily make at home, using everyday items.

• Chores & Time : Setting a timer will make me finish my chores faster.
• Pets & Behavior : My cat sleeps more during the day than at night.
• Recycling & Environment : Recycling more can reduce the trash in my home.
• Cooking & Tastes : Adding spices will change the taste of my food.
• Family Time & Bonding : Playing board games strengthens our family bond.
• Cleaning & Organization : Organizing my toys daily will keep my room tidier.
• Watering & Plant Health : Watering my plant regularly will keep its leaves green.
• Decor & Mood : Changing the room decor can influence my mood.
• Journals & Memories : Writing in my journal daily will help me remember fun events.
• Photos & Growth : Taking monthly photos will show how much I’ve grown.

How do you write a hypothesis for kids? – A Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Start with Curiosity Begin with a question that your child is curious about. This could be something simple, like “Why is the sky blue?” or “Do plants need sunlight to grow?”

Step 2: Observe and Research Before formulating the hypothesis, encourage your child to observe the world around them. If possible, read or watch videos about the topic to gather information. The idea is to get a general understanding of the subject.

Step 3: Keep it Simple For kids, it’s essential to keep the hypothesis straightforward and concise. Use language that is easy to understand and relatable to their age.

Step 4: Make a Predictable Statement Help your child frame their hypothesis as an “If… then…” statement. For example, “If I water a plant every day, then it will grow taller.”

Step 5: Ensure Testability Ensure that the hypothesis can be tested using simple experiments or observations. It should be something they can prove or disprove through hands-on activities.

Step 6: Avoid Certainty Teach kids that a hypothesis is not a definitive statement of fact but rather a best guess based on what they know. It’s okay if the hypothesis turns out to be wrong; the learning process is more important.

Step 7: Review and Refine After forming the initial hypothesis, review it with your child. Discuss if it can be made simpler or clearer. Refinement aids in better understanding and testing.

Step 8: Test the Hypothesis This is the fun part! Plan an experiment or set of observations to test the hypothesis. Whether the hypothesis is proven correct or not, the experience provides a learning opportunity.

Tips for Writing Hypothesis for Kids

• Encourage Curiosity : Always encourage your child to ask questions about the world around them. It’s the first step to formulating a hypothesis.
• Use Familiar Language : Use words that the child understands and can relate to. Avoid jargon or technical terms.
• Make it Fun : Turn the process of forming a hypothesis into a game or a storytelling session. This will keep kids engaged.
• Use Visual Aids : Kids often respond well to visuals. Drawing or using props can help in understanding and formulating the hypothesis.
• Stay Open-minded : It’s essential to teach kids that it’s okay if their hypothesis is wrong. The process of discovery and learning is what’s crucial.
• Practice Regularly : The more often kids practice forming hypotheses, the better they get at it. Use everyday situations as opportunities.
• Link to Real-life Scenarios : Relate the hypothesis to real-life situations or personal experiences. For instance, if discussing plants, you can relate it to a plant you have at home.
• Collaborate : Sometimes, two heads are better than one. Encourage group activities where kids can discuss and come up with hypotheses together.
• Encourage Documentation : Keeping a journal or notebook where they document their hypotheses and results can be a great learning tool.
• Celebrate Efforts : Regardless of whether the hypothesis was correct, celebrate the effort and the learning journey. This reinforces the idea that the process is more important than the outcome.

How to Write a Great Hypothesis

Hypothesis Definition, Format, Examples, and Tips

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk,  "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time.

Verywell / Alex Dos Diaz

• The Scientific Method

Hypothesis Format

Falsifiability of a hypothesis.

• Operationalization

Hypothesis Types

Hypotheses examples.

• Collecting Data

A hypothesis is a tentative statement about the relationship between two or more variables. It is a specific, testable prediction about what you expect to happen in a study. It is a preliminary answer to your question that helps guide the research process.

Consider a study designed to examine the relationship between sleep deprivation and test performance. The hypothesis might be: "This study is designed to assess the hypothesis that sleep-deprived people will perform worse on a test than individuals who are not sleep-deprived."

At a Glance

A hypothesis is crucial to scientific research because it offers a clear direction for what the researchers are looking to find. This allows them to design experiments to test their predictions and add to our scientific knowledge about the world. This article explores how a hypothesis is used in psychology research, how to write a good hypothesis, and the different types of hypotheses you might use.

The Hypothesis in the Scientific Method

In the scientific method , whether it involves research in psychology, biology, or some other area, a hypothesis represents what the researchers think will happen in an experiment. The scientific method involves the following steps:

• Forming a question
• Performing background research
• Creating a hypothesis
• Designing an experiment
• Collecting data
• Analyzing the results
• Drawing conclusions
• Communicating the results

The hypothesis is a prediction, but it involves more than a guess. Most of the time, the hypothesis begins with a question which is then explored through background research. At this point, researchers then begin to develop a testable hypothesis.

Unless you are creating an exploratory study, your hypothesis should always explain what you  expect  to happen.

In a study exploring the effects of a particular drug, the hypothesis might be that researchers expect the drug to have some type of effect on the symptoms of a specific illness. In psychology, the hypothesis might focus on how a certain aspect of the environment might influence a particular behavior.

Remember, a hypothesis does not have to be correct. While the hypothesis predicts what the researchers expect to see, the goal of the research is to determine whether this guess is right or wrong. When conducting an experiment, researchers might explore numerous factors to determine which ones might contribute to the ultimate outcome.

In many cases, researchers may find that the results of an experiment  do not  support the original hypothesis. When writing up these results, the researchers might suggest other options that should be explored in future studies.

In many cases, researchers might draw a hypothesis from a specific theory or build on previous research. For example, prior research has shown that stress can impact the immune system. So a researcher might hypothesize: "People with high-stress levels will be more likely to contract a common cold after being exposed to the virus than people who have low-stress levels."

In other instances, researchers might look at commonly held beliefs or folk wisdom. "Birds of a feather flock together" is one example of folk adage that a psychologist might try to investigate. The researcher might pose a specific hypothesis that "People tend to select romantic partners who are similar to them in interests and educational level."

Elements of a Good Hypothesis

So how do you write a good hypothesis? When trying to come up with a hypothesis for your research or experiments, ask yourself the following questions:

• Is your hypothesis based on your research on a topic?
• Can your hypothesis be tested?
• Does your hypothesis include independent and dependent variables?

Before you come up with a specific hypothesis, spend some time doing background research. Once you have completed a literature review, start thinking about potential questions you still have. Pay attention to the discussion section in the  journal articles you read . Many authors will suggest questions that still need to be explored.

How to Formulate a Good Hypothesis

To form a hypothesis, you should take these steps:

• Collect as many observations about a topic or problem as you can.
• Evaluate these observations and look for possible causes of the problem.
• Create a list of possible explanations that you might want to explore.
• After you have developed some possible hypotheses, think of ways that you could confirm or disprove each hypothesis through experimentation. This is known as falsifiability.

In the scientific method ,  falsifiability is an important part of any valid hypothesis. In order to test a claim scientifically, it must be possible that the claim could be proven false.

Students sometimes confuse the idea of falsifiability with the idea that it means that something is false, which is not the case. What falsifiability means is that  if  something was false, then it is possible to demonstrate that it is false.

One of the hallmarks of pseudoscience is that it makes claims that cannot be refuted or proven false.

The Importance of Operational Definitions

A variable is a factor or element that can be changed and manipulated in ways that are observable and measurable. However, the researcher must also define how the variable will be manipulated and measured in the study.

Operational definitions are specific definitions for all relevant factors in a study. This process helps make vague or ambiguous concepts detailed and measurable.

For example, a researcher might operationally define the variable " test anxiety " as the results of a self-report measure of anxiety experienced during an exam. A "study habits" variable might be defined by the amount of studying that actually occurs as measured by time.

These precise descriptions are important because many things can be measured in various ways. Clearly defining these variables and how they are measured helps ensure that other researchers can replicate your results.

Replicability

One of the basic principles of any type of scientific research is that the results must be replicable.

Replication means repeating an experiment in the same way to produce the same results. By clearly detailing the specifics of how the variables were measured and manipulated, other researchers can better understand the results and repeat the study if needed.

Some variables are more difficult than others to define. For example, how would you operationally define a variable such as aggression ? For obvious ethical reasons, researchers cannot create a situation in which a person behaves aggressively toward others.

To measure this variable, the researcher must devise a measurement that assesses aggressive behavior without harming others. The researcher might utilize a simulated task to measure aggressiveness in this situation.

Hypothesis Checklist

• Does your hypothesis focus on something that you can actually test?
• Does your hypothesis include both an independent and dependent variable?
• Can you manipulate the variables?
• Can your hypothesis be tested without violating ethical standards?

The hypothesis you use will depend on what you are investigating and hoping to find. Some of the main types of hypotheses that you might use include:

• Simple hypothesis : This type of hypothesis suggests there is a relationship between one independent variable and one dependent variable.
• Complex hypothesis : This type suggests a relationship between three or more variables, such as two independent and dependent variables.
• Null hypothesis : This hypothesis suggests no relationship exists between two or more variables.
• Alternative hypothesis : This hypothesis states the opposite of the null hypothesis.
• Statistical hypothesis : This hypothesis uses statistical analysis to evaluate a representative population sample and then generalizes the findings to the larger group.
• Logical hypothesis : This hypothesis assumes a relationship between variables without collecting data or evidence.

A hypothesis often follows a basic format of "If {this happens} then {this will happen}." One way to structure your hypothesis is to describe what will happen to the  dependent variable  if you change the  independent variable .

The basic format might be: "If {these changes are made to a certain independent variable}, then we will observe {a change in a specific dependent variable}."

A few examples of simple hypotheses:

• "Students who eat breakfast will perform better on a math exam than students who do not eat breakfast."
• "Students who experience test anxiety before an English exam will get lower scores than students who do not experience test anxiety."​
• "Motorists who talk on the phone while driving will be more likely to make errors on a driving course than those who do not talk on the phone."
• "Children who receive a new reading intervention will have higher reading scores than students who do not receive the intervention."

Examples of a complex hypothesis include:

• "People with high-sugar diets and sedentary activity levels are more likely to develop depression."
• "Younger people who are regularly exposed to green, outdoor areas have better subjective well-being than older adults who have limited exposure to green spaces."

Examples of a null hypothesis include:

• "There is no difference in anxiety levels between people who take St. John's wort supplements and those who do not."
• "There is no difference in scores on a memory recall task between children and adults."
• "There is no difference in aggression levels between children who play first-person shooter games and those who do not."

Examples of an alternative hypothesis:

• "People who take St. John's wort supplements will have less anxiety than those who do not."
• "Adults will perform better on a memory task than children."
• "Children who play first-person shooter games will show higher levels of aggression than children who do not." 

Collecting Data on Your Hypothesis

Once a researcher has formed a testable hypothesis, the next step is to select a research design and start collecting data. The research method depends largely on exactly what they are studying. There are two basic types of research methods: descriptive research and experimental research.

Descriptive Research Methods

Descriptive research such as  case studies ,  naturalistic observations , and surveys are often used when  conducting an experiment is difficult or impossible. These methods are best used to describe different aspects of a behavior or psychological phenomenon.

Once a researcher has collected data using descriptive methods, a  correlational study  can examine how the variables are related. This research method might be used to investigate a hypothesis that is difficult to test experimentally.

Experimental Research Methods

Experimental methods  are used to demonstrate causal relationships between variables. In an experiment, the researcher systematically manipulates a variable of interest (known as the independent variable) and measures the effect on another variable (known as the dependent variable).

Unlike correlational studies, which can only be used to determine if there is a relationship between two variables, experimental methods can be used to determine the actual nature of the relationship—whether changes in one variable actually  cause  another to change.

The hypothesis is a critical part of any scientific exploration. It represents what researchers expect to find in a study or experiment. In situations where the hypothesis is unsupported by the research, the research still has value. Such research helps us better understand how different aspects of the natural world relate to one another. It also helps us develop new hypotheses that can then be tested in the future.

Thompson WH, Skau S. On the scope of scientific hypotheses .  R Soc Open Sci . 2023;10(8):230607. doi:10.1098/rsos.230607

Taran S, Adhikari NKJ, Fan E. Falsifiability in medicine: what clinicians can learn from Karl Popper [published correction appears in Intensive Care Med. 2021 Jun 17;:].  Intensive Care Med . 2021;47(9):1054-1056. doi:10.1007/s00134-021-06432-z

Eyler AA. Research Methods for Public Health . 1st ed. Springer Publishing Company; 2020. doi:10.1891/9780826182067.0004

Nosek BA, Errington TM. What is replication ?  PLoS Biol . 2020;18(3):e3000691. doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.3000691

Aggarwal R, Ranganathan P. Study designs: Part 2 - Descriptive studies .  Perspect Clin Res . 2019;10(1):34-36. doi:10.4103/picr.PICR_154_18

Nevid J. Psychology: Concepts and Applications. Wadworth, 2013.

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

What Is a Hypothesis? (Science)

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• Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
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A hypothesis (plural hypotheses) is a proposed explanation for an observation. The definition depends on the subject.

In science, a hypothesis is part of the scientific method. It is a prediction or explanation that is tested by an experiment. Observations and experiments may disprove a scientific hypothesis, but can never entirely prove one.

In the study of logic, a hypothesis is an if-then proposition, typically written in the form, "If X , then Y ."

In common usage, a hypothesis is simply a proposed explanation or prediction, which may or may not be tested.

Writing a Hypothesis

Most scientific hypotheses are proposed in the if-then format because it's easy to design an experiment to see whether or not a cause and effect relationship exists between the independent variable and the dependent variable . The hypothesis is written as a prediction of the outcome of the experiment.

• Null Hypothesis and Alternative Hypothesis

Statistically, it's easier to show there is no relationship between two variables than to support their connection. So, scientists often propose the null hypothesis . The null hypothesis assumes changing the independent variable will have no effect on the dependent variable.

In contrast, the alternative hypothesis suggests changing the independent variable will have an effect on the dependent variable. Designing an experiment to test this hypothesis can be trickier because there are many ways to state an alternative hypothesis.

For example, consider a possible relationship between getting a good night's sleep and getting good grades. The null hypothesis might be stated: "The number of hours of sleep students get is unrelated to their grades" or "There is no correlation between hours of sleep and grades."

An experiment to test this hypothesis might involve collecting data, recording average hours of sleep for each student and grades. If a student who gets eight hours of sleep generally does better than students who get four hours of sleep or 10 hours of sleep, the hypothesis might be rejected.

But the alternative hypothesis is harder to propose and test. The most general statement would be: "The amount of sleep students get affects their grades." The hypothesis might also be stated as "If you get more sleep, your grades will improve" or "Students who get nine hours of sleep have better grades than those who get more or less sleep."

In an experiment, you can collect the same data, but the statistical analysis is less likely to give you a high confidence limit.

Usually, a scientist starts out with the null hypothesis. From there, it may be possible to propose and test an alternative hypothesis, to narrow down the relationship between the variables.

Example of a Hypothesis

Examples of a hypothesis include:

• If you drop a rock and a feather, (then) they will fall at the same rate.
• Plants need sunlight in order to live. (if sunlight, then life)
• Eating sugar gives you energy. (if sugar, then energy)
• White, Jay D.  Research in Public Administration . Conn., 1998.
• Schick, Theodore, and Lewis Vaughn.  How to Think about Weird Things: Critical Thinking for a New Age . McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2002.
• Null Hypothesis Definition and Examples
• Definition of a Hypothesis
• What Are the Elements of a Good Hypothesis?
• Six Steps of the Scientific Method
• Independent Variable Definition and Examples
• What Are Examples of a Hypothesis?
• Understanding Simple vs Controlled Experiments
• Scientific Method Flow Chart
• Scientific Method Vocabulary Terms
• What Is a Testable Hypothesis?
• Null Hypothesis Examples
• What 'Fail to Reject' Means in a Hypothesis Test
• How To Design a Science Fair Experiment
• What Is an Experiment? Definition and Design
• Hypothesis Test for the Difference of Two Population Proportions

A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for some event or problem. For a scientific hypothesis, the scientific method requires that one can test it. [1] [2]

• 2 Statistics
• 3 Hypothesis Media
• 4 Related pages
• 5 References
• 6 Other websites

In the early 17th century, Cardinal Bellarmine gave a well known example of the older sense of the word in his warning to Galileo : that he must not treat the motion of the Earth as a reality, but merely as a hypothesis.

Today, a hypothesis refers to an idea that needs to be tested . A hypothesis needs more work by the researcher in order to check it. A tested hypothesis that works may become part of a theory —or become a theory itself. The testing should be an attempt to prove that the hypothesis is wrong. That is, there should be a way to falsify the hypothesis, at least in principle if not in practice.

People often call a hypothesis an "educated guess".

Experimenters may test and reject several hypotheses, before solving the problem or reaching a satisfactory theory.

A 'working hypothesis' is just a rough kind of hypothesis that is provisionally accepted as a basis for further research. [5] The hope is that a theory will be produced, even if the hypothesis ultimately fails. [6] [7]

Hypotheses are especially important in science. Several philosophers have said that without hypotheses, there could be no science. [8] In recent years, philosophers of science have tried to integrate the various approaches to testing hypotheses (and the scientific method in general), to form a more complete system. The point is that hypotheses are suggested ideas , which are then tested by experiments or observations .

In statistics , people talk about correlation : correlation is how closely related two events or phenomena are. A proposition (or hypothesis) that two events are related cannot be tested in the same way as a law of nature can be tested. An example would be to see if some drug is effective to treat a given medical condition. Even if there is a strong correlation that indicates that this is the case, some samples would still not fit the hypothesis.

There are two hypotheses in statistical tests, called the null hypothesis , often written as [math]\displaystyle{ H_0 }[/math] , and the alternative hypothesis , often written as [math]\displaystyle{ H_a }[/math] . [9] The null hypothesis states that there is no link between the phenomena, [10] and is usually assumed to be true until it can be proven wrong beyond a reasonable doubt. [11] The alternative hypothesis states that there is some kind of link. It is usually the opposite of the null hypothesis, and is what one would conclude if null hypothesis is rejected. [12] The alternative hypothesis may take several forms. It can be two-sided (for example: there is some effect, in a yet unknown direction) or one-sided (the direction of the supposed relation, positive or negative, is fixed in advance). [11]

Hypothesis Media

The hypothesis of Andreas Cellarius , showing the planetary motions in eccentric and epicyclical orbits .

Related pages

• Falsifiability
• Gaia hypothesis
• Null hypothesis
• Occam's razor
• Statistical hypothesis test
• Thought experiment
• ↑ The term comes from the Greek , hypotithenai meaning "to put under" or "to suppose".
• ↑ Bunge, Mario 1967. Scientific research I: the search for system . Berlin: Springer Verlag, Chapter 5, p222.
• ↑ Richard Feynman (1965) The character of physical law . p156
• ↑ Oxford Dictionary of Sports Science & Medicine Eprint via Answers.com
• ↑ See in "hypothesis", Century Dictionary Supplement , v. 1, 1909, New York: Century Company. Reprinted, v. 11, p. 616 (via Internet Archive ) of the Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia , 1911.
• ↑ Schick, Theodore; Vaughn, Lewis (2002). How to think about weird things: critical thinking for a New Age . Boston: McGraw-Hill Higher Education. ISBN   0-7674-2048-9 .
• ↑ Medawar P.B. & J.S. 1983. Aristotle to zoos: a philosophical dictionary of biology . Harvard University Press, p148. ISBN   0-674-04537-8
• ↑ "List of Probability and Statistics Symbols" . Math Vault . 2020-04-26 . Retrieved 2020-09-22 .
• ↑ or that the link does not have the form given by the alternative hypothesis
• ↑ 11.0 11.1 "Null and Alternative Hypotheses | Introduction to Statistics" . courses.lumenlearning.com . Retrieved 2020-09-22 .
• ↑ "Introductory Statistics: Null and Alternative Hypotheses" . opentextbc.ca . Archived from the original on June 11, 2021 . Retrieved September 22, 2020 .

Other websites

• Research and evaluation glossary
• Analysis and synthesis - on scientific method, based on a study by Bernhard Riemann from the Swedish Morphological Society

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Scientific Method For Kids With Examples

Kids have questions about the world around them every day, and there is so much to learn through experimentation with simple materials. You can begin using the scientific method with elementary kids. Below we’ll share with you how and when to introduce the scientific method, the steps of the scientific method, and some easy scientific method experiments. There are so many great ways to enjoy science projects with kids!

What Is The Scientific Method?

The scientific method is a process or method of research. A problem is identified, information about the problem is gathered, a hypothesis or question is formulated from the information, and the hypothesis is put to the test with an experiment to prove or disprove its validity.

Sounds heavy… What in the world does that mean?!? It means you don’t need to try and solve the world’s biggest science questions! The scientific method is all about studying and learning things right around you.

As children develop practices that involve creating, gathering data evaluating, analyzing, and communicating, they can apply these critical thinking skills to any situation.

Note: The use of the best Science and Engineering Practices is also relevant to the topic of using the scientific method. Read more here and see if it fits your science planning needs.

Can Young Kids Use the Scientific Method?

Kids are great scientists at any age, and can use the scientific method in context to what they are learning. It can be adapted for any age!

The scientific method is a valuable tool for introducing kids to a logical way to solve scientific problems. Scientists use the scientific method to study, learn, and come up with an answer!

The scientific method is a process that helps double-check that answers are correct and the correct results are obtained through careful planning. Sometimes the guesses and questions change as you run your experiments.

Kids can use the scientific method too on questions that are relevant to them!

Let’s break the scientific method for kids down into six parts, and you can quickly see how each can be incorporated into your next science experiment.

What Are The Steps In The Scientific Method?

• Make initial observations.
• Come up with a question of interest that is based on the observations.
• Develop a hypothesis or prediction to go along with the question.
• Experiment and test.
• Gather and record results of tests and experiments and draw conclusions.
• Share and discuss results.

Whoa… Wait A  Minute! That sounds like a lot for a young kid!

You are correct. Depending on your kid’s abilities, following all the scientific method steps precisely will not go well. Someone will get frustrated, bored, and turned off by just how cool science can be. We do not want that to happen!

Using The Scientific Method For Preschool and Kindergarten

Use the scientific method steps as a guideline in the back of your mind. You can cover most of the steps by talking with your kids about…

• What do they think will happen?
• What is happening ?
• What happened compared to what they thought would happen ?

No writing is required! It’s also best to pick pretty straightforward ideas that aren’t overly involved or complicated to set up and test. Kids always have burning questions and “what ifs.”

See if you can tackle their next “what if” using the scientific method by listening carefully to their conversations. You can even have them keep a journal with their “what if” questions for your next science time.

Learn more about Science Activities For Preschoolers and Kindergarten Science Experiments .

Now on to how to apply the scientific method for elementary kiddos and beyond.

Scientific Method Steps In Action

Learn more about the steps of the scientific method below, which are great for science at home with your kids or in the classroom! We have also included some simple scientific method experiments for you to enjoy.

Ice Science Experiments are perfect for this! Try these 3 today !

STEP 1: Make Observations

Tons of everyday activities would make for cool science experiments using the scientific method. Listen to what your kids talk about and see happening. My son noticed that ice melted pretty fast in his water.

Observation is simply noticing what’s happening through our senses or with tools like a magnifying glass. Observation is used to collect and record data, enabling scientists to construct and test hypotheses and theories.

Learn more about observations in science.

STEP 2: Come Up With A Question 

Your kids’ observations should lead to some sort of question. For my son and his ice observations, he came up with questions. Does ice melt faster in different liquids? His curiosity about what happens to the ice in liquids is a simple science experiment perfect for using the scientific method.

Next! Do some research and come up with ideas!

STEP 3: Develop A Prediction or Hypothesis

You have made your observations, you have your question, and now you need to make a prediction about what you think will happen.

A prediction is a guess at what might happen in an experiment based on observation or other information.

A hypothesis is not simply a guess! It’s a statement of what you believe will happen based on the information you have gathered.

My son hypothesizes that ice will melt faster in juice than in water.

STEP 4: Conduct An Experiment

We made a prediction that ice will melt faster in juice than it will in water, and now we have to test our hypothesis. We set up an experiment with a glass of juice, a glass of water, and an ice cube for each.

For the best experiments, only one thing should change! All the things that can be changed in a science experiment are called variables. There are three types of variables; independent, dependent, and controlled.

The independent variable is the one that is changed in the experiment and will affect the dependent variable. Here we will use different types of liquids to melt our ice cube in.

The dependent variable is the factor that is observed or measured in the experiment. This will be the melting of the ice cubes. Set up a stopwatch or set a time limit to observe the changes!

The controlled variable stays constant in the experiment. The liquids should be roughly the same temperature (as close as possible) for our ice melting experiment and measured to the same amount. So we left them out to come to room temperature. They could also be tested right out of the fridge!

You can find simple science experiments here with dependent and controlled variables.

STEP 5: Record Results and Draw Conclusions

Make sure to record what is happening as well as the results—note changes at specific time intervals or after one set time interval.

For example…

• Record when each ice cube is completely melted.
• Add drawings if you wish of the setup up and the end results.
• Was your prediction accurate? If it was inaccurate, record why.
• Write out a final conclusion to your experiment.

STEP 6: Communicate Your Results

This is the opportunity to talk about your hypothesis, experiment, results, and conclusion!

ALTERNATIVE IDEAS: Switch out an ice cube for a lollipop or change the liquids using vinegar and cooking oil.

Now you have gone through the steps of the scientific method, read on for more fun scientific method experiments to try!

Free printable scientific method worksheets!

Fun Scientific Method Experiments

Sink or float experiment.

A Sink or Float experiment is great for practicing the steps of the scientific method with younger kids.

Grab this FREE printable sink or float experiment

Here are a few of our favorite scientific method experiments, which are great for elementary-age kids . Of course, you can find tons more awesome and doable science projects for kids here!

Magic Milk Experiment

Start with demonstrating this delightful magic milk experiment. Then get kids to apply the steps of the scientific method by coming up with a question to investigate. What happens when you change the type of milk used?

What Dissolves In Water

Investigate  what solids dissolve in water  and what do not. Here’s a super fun science experiment for kids that’s very easy to set up! Learn about solutions, solutes, and solvents through experimenting with water and common kitchen ingredients.

Apple Browning Experiment

Investigate how to keep apples from turning brown with this apple oxidation experiment . What can you add to cut apples to stop or slow the oxidation process?

Freezing Water Experiment

Will it freeze? What happens to the freezing point of water when you add salt?

Viscosity Experiment

Learn about the viscosity of fluids with a simple  viscosity experiment . Grab some marbles and add them to different household liquids to find out which one will fall to the bottom first. 

Seed Germination Experiment

Set up a simple seed germination experiment .

Catapult Experiment

Make a simple popsicle stick catapult and use one of our experiment ideas to investigate from rubber band tension to changes in launch angle and more. How far can you fling your objects? Take measurements and find out.

Floating Orange

Investigate whether an orange floats or sinks in water, and what happens if you use different types of oranges. Learn about buoyancy and density with a simple ingredient from the kitchen, an orange.

Bread Mold Experiment

Grow mold on bread for science, and investigate how factors such as moisture, temperature, and air affect mold growth. 

Eggshell Strength Experiment

Test how strong an egg is with this eggshell strength experiment . Grab some eggs, and find out how much weight an egg can support.

Free Printable Science Fair Starter Guide

Are you looking to plan a science fair project, make a science fair board, or want an easy guide to set up science experiments?

Learn more about prepping for a science fair and grab this free printable science fair project pack here!

If you want a variety of science fair experiments with instructions, make sure to pick up a copy of our Science Project Pack in the shop.

Bonus STEM Projects For Kids

STEM activities include science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As well as our kids science experiments, we have lots of fun STEM activities for you to try. Check out these STEM ideas below…

• Building Activities
• Engineering Projects For Kids
• What Is Engineering For Kids?
• Coding Activities For Kids
• STEM Worksheets
• Top 10 STEM Challenges For Kids

Printable Science Projects Pack

If you’re looking to grab all of our printable science projects in one convenient place plus exclusive worksheets and bonuses like a STEAM Project pack, our Science Project Pack is what you need! Over 300+ Pages!

• 90+ classic science activities  with journal pages, supply lists, set up and process, and science information.  NEW! Activity-specific observation pages!
• Best science practices posters  and our original science method process folders for extra alternatives!
• Be a Collector activities pack  introduces kids to the world of making collections through the eyes of a scientist. What will they collect first?
• Know the Words Science vocabulary pack  includes flashcards, crosswords, and word searches that illuminate keywords in the experiments!
• My science journal writing prompts  explore what it means to be a scientist!!
• Bonus STEAM Project Pack:  Art meets science with doable projects!
• Bonus Quick Grab Packs for Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics

19 Comments

A great post and sure to help extend children’s thinking! I would like to download the 6 steps but the blue download button doesn’t seem to be working for me.

Thank you! All fixed. You should be able to download now!

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Hypothesizing: How Toddlers Use Scientific Thinking to Learn

Can Toddlers Hypothesize?

Yes, but it’s simplified at this age. Toddlers tend to be less vocal when they make an observation or a hypothesis, often internalizing their thoughts instead.

You might see your toddler dump and refill a container of blocks several times, focusing intently on watching the blocks fall out over and over again. As your little one watches, they might consider what will happen if they added more blocks to dump out, or if kicking the container over will have a different outcome than using their hands to tip it over.

Hypothesizing in the toddler years relies heavily on cause and effect awareness , which develops through toddlerhood and into the preschool years. Toddlers learn what happens when they do certain things, such as making banging sounds when they hit a box. Each time a toddler changes how they play with something, they see a different outcome, which lays the foundation for forming predictions.

So every time you see your little one repeating the same things, or switching them up slightly, they’re working on the cause and effect awareness that leads to scientific thinking!

Hypothesizing and Scientific Exploration at Work in Toddlerhood

Scientific exploration is much more than simply science! It involves planning, critical thinking, and problem-solving – skills at the heart of learning in general. Scientific exploration relies on observing, asking questions, making predictions, and testing things out.

Here’s how the scientific thinking process might look in a toddler who’s playing with toy trucks:

• Observing: Your toddler rolls the truck across the floor, watching its wheels move. Your cat walks by and pushes another truck with its paw, sending it soaring across the room as your toddler watches.
• Asking questions: Your toddler wonders why that truck moved faster than the one in their hands.
• Hypothesizing: Your toddler pushes the truck with one hand, sending the truck zooming across the floor.
• Predicting: Seeing the truck move faster, your toddler might think that pushing the truck with both hands could make it go even faster still.
• Testing: Your toddler uses their hands to push the toy across the floor again and again. Eventually, they try other ways of moving the truck, like kicking it with their feet and rolling it off the edge of a chair.

In this example, your little one made it through a complete cycle of scientific thinking with just one toy! Hypothesizing is a pivotal piece of that process, requiring them to problem-solve in. order to achieve a specific outcome.

How can you help your toddler hypothesize and think scientifically? Play! You could ask questions that help them think, such as, “What do you think would happen if…” or “Do you think your picture would look different if we colored it with markers instead of crayons?” Even if your toddler doesn’t have an answer, you’re engaging their thinking skills.

You can find fun ways to engage your little one’s scientific thinking in our BabySparks program!

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