To solve this problem, we need to identify the
independent variable and the
dependent variable in each scenario. Let’s break it down step by step.
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What are Independent and Dependent Variables?
-
Independent Variable: This is what you *change* or *control* in an experiment. It’s the cause.
-
Dependent Variable: This is what you *measure* or *observe* as a result. It’s the effect.
Think of it like this:
You change something (independent), and then you see what happens (dependent).
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Scenario 1: Cow Growth Hormone Experiment
> A cow is given a growth hormone and then compared to another cow that was not given a growth hormone. Both cows were weighed at 2 years.
- What did they change? → Whether the cow got the growth hormone or not.
- What did they measure? → The weight of the cows at 2 years.
✔ Independent Variable: Growth hormone (given or not given)
✔ Dependent Variable: Weight of the cows
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Scenario 2: Mosquito Repellent Test
> Mosquito repellent is sprayed on one arm and the other arm is not sprayed. The number of mosquito bites is counted after 2 hours.
- What did they change? → Whether repellent was sprayed or not.
- What did they measure? → Number of mosquito bites.
✔ Independent Variable: Application of mosquito repellent (sprayed or not sprayed)
✔ Dependent Variable: Number of mosquito bites
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Scenario 3: Grape in Tap Water vs Salt Water
> One grape is placed in tap water and another grape is placed in salt water. The change in their mass is measured after a day.
- What did they change? → Type of water (tap vs salt).
- What did they measure? → Change in mass of the grapes.
✔ Independent Variable: Type of water (tap water or salt water)
✔ Dependent Variable: Change in mass of the grapes
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Now, let’s fill in the table clearly:
| Scenario | Independent Variable | Dependent Variable |
|----------|------------------------------------------|----------------------------------|
| 1 | Growth hormone (given or not given) | Weight of the cows |
| 2 | Mosquito repellent (sprayed or not) | Number of mosquito bites |
| 3 | Type of water (tap or salt) | Change in mass of the grapes |
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Final Answer:
Scenario 1: Independent Variable = Growth hormone (given or not given); Dependent Variable = Weight of the cows
Scenario 2: Independent Variable = Mosquito repellent (sprayed or not); Dependent Variable = Number of mosquito bites
Scenario 3: Independent Variable = Type of water (tap or salt); Dependent Variable = Change in mass of the grapes
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of independent versus dependent variable worksheet.
