The hypothesis works to answer the research question.  It guides the entire experiment giving it focus and purpose. It is testable. The hypothesis describes a relationship between two or more variables.  There is an independent variable and a dependent variable highlighted in your hypothesis.  The independent variable is the part of the experiment that is being controlled or changed.  The dependent variable changes based on the factors being studied that have been applied to the independent variables.  

To write a hypothesis: 

• The hypothesis for this lab was ___. 

• It is hypothesized that ____. 

• If ___ , then ___ . 

• If ___ is related to ___ , then ____ . 

• If ___ then, ___ because ___ . 

Example hypothesis: 

• If (independent variable) then, (dependent variable) because (explanation of the relationship between the variables.)

Example: 

• If leaf color change is related to temperature, then exposing plants to low temperatures will result in changes in leaf color. 

• If the plant is given water then the plant will grow the tallest because water helps the plant absorb the nutrients that the plant needs to survive. 

Use the “If __ then, ___ because __” sentence structure to generate a thesis statement.  Then, continue the explanation to write a rationale.