Comparing Viewpoints & Hypotheses - ACT Science

Which option best defines a control condition in an experiment discussion?

A baseline condition used for comparison to isolate the tested factor. Standard reference point to show the effect of experimental changes.
What is the importance of sample size in scientific research?

Larger samples increase reliability and generalizability. More subjects reduce random error and improve statistical power.
Identify the term for the consistency of a measurement in repeated tests.

Reliability. Consistent results indicate the measurement tool is dependable.
Which option best describes scientific skepticism?

Questioning the validity of a claim without evidence. Requires evidence before accepting claims as scientifically valid.
What is the dependent variable in an experiment description?

The measured outcome that changes in response to the independent variable. What you measure as a result of changing other factors.
What is meant by 'peer review' in scientific research?

Evaluation by other experts in the field. Ensures quality and credibility of research.
Which hypothesis is inconsistent with data: at $X=1$ , $Y=5$ ; at $X=2$ , $Y=5$ ? Hypothesis A: $Y$ depends on $X$ . Hypothesis B: $Y$ constant.

Hypothesis A. Constant $Y$ contradicts Hypothesis A's claim of dependence.
What is the correct interpretation when data support Viewpoint A at low $X$ but support Viewpoint B at high $X$ ?

Each viewpoint may apply in a different range of conditions. Different conditions may favor different mechanisms or viewpoints.
Which variable is measured in response to changes in the independent variable?

Dependent variable. Changes in response to independent variable manipulation.
Which option describes an experiment's reproducibility?

Achieving consistent results in repeated trials. Independent researchers get the same results.
What is a common method for testing a hypothesis?

Conducting an experiment. Controlled experiments provide data to support or refute predictions.
What should you do if a question asks which viewpoint "would most likely agree" with a new observation?

Choose the viewpoint whose mechanism predicts that observation. Match the observation to each viewpoint's logical predictions.
Which viewpoint matches this prediction: "Doubling $X$ doubles $Y$ "? Option A: $Y \propto X$ . Option B: $Y \propto \frac{1}{X}$ .

Option A: $Y \propto X$ . Direct proportionality means doubling input doubles output.
Which term describes a consistent result across multiple studies?

Reproducibility. Results can be repeated by different researchers.
What is the term for an outcome that contradicts the hypothesis?

Null result. When data doesn't support the predicted outcome.
What is a 'confidence interval' in statistics?

A range of values that likely contain the true parameter. Shows uncertainty around the estimated value.
What is a hypothesis in an ACT Science Comparing Viewpoints passage?

A proposed explanation or prediction that can be tested. Must be specific enough to allow experimental testing.
What does it mean if two hypotheses are mutually exclusive?

They cannot both be true simultaneously. Only one can be correct when they contradict each other.
Define 'null hypothesis' in scientific research.

A hypothesis that assumes no effect or relationship. Default assumption that there's no difference or effect.
Identify the term for a factor that could affect the outcome of an experiment.

Confounding variable. Unwanted factor that influences experimental results.
Which option best defines a prediction in a scientific hypothesis?

A specific expected result under stated conditions. Must be concrete and verifiable through observation or experiment.
What does it mean if a viewpoint is quantitative rather than qualitative?

It predicts numerical relationships or specific measurable values. Makes specific numerical predictions that can be measured.
Define the term 'falsifiability' in scientific hypotheses.

The ability of a hypothesis to be proven false. Must be possible to disprove through testing.
What is the meaning of "cannot be determined" in viewpoint questions?

The passage provides insufficient information to decide. Lack of relevant data makes evaluation impossible.
Identify the type of reasoning that involves forming a generalization.

Inductive reasoning. Moves from specific observations to broader generalizations.
What is the term for a conclusion drawn from data and observations?

Inference. Logical deduction based on available evidence and data.
What does a 'type I error' refer to in hypothesis testing?

Incorrectly rejecting the null hypothesis. False positive - claiming effect when none exists.
What is the meaning of "supports" in data-based viewpoint questions?

The data pattern matches the viewpoint's prediction. The data confirm what the viewpoint predicted would happen.
Which factor is measured in an experiment to assess the effect of changes?

Dependent variable. This variable responds to changes in the independent variable.
Which viewpoint matches this prediction: "Doubling $X$ halves $Y$ "? Option A: $Y \propto X$ . Option B: $Y \propto \frac{1}{X}$ .

Option B: $Y \propto \frac{1}{X}$ . Inverse proportionality means doubling input halves output.
Identify the term for a hypothesis that predicts no effect or relationship.

Null hypothesis. Assumes no change or difference will occur in the experiment.
What is an experimental design?

A plan for conducting an experiment. Framework that guides data collection and analysis.
Which statement is consistent with a negative correlation between $X$ and $Y$ ?

As $X$ increases, $Y$ decreases. Negative correlation means variables move in opposite directions.
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?

Qualitative is descriptive; quantitative is numerical. Qualitative uses words; quantitative uses numbers and measurements.
Identify the purpose of using a hypothesis in scientific research.

To provide a basis for experimentation. Guides experimental design and data collection methods.
What is the primary role of a hypothesis in an experiment?

To provide a testable statement that guides research. Directs the experiment and enables focused testing.
Which viewpoint is consistent with this result: when $X$ increases from $2$ to $4$ , $Y$ stays at $10$ ? Viewpoint A: $Y$ constant. Viewpoint B: $Y$ increases.

Viewpoint A. Constant $Y$ matches Viewpoint A's prediction exactly.
In what type of study is the subject unaware of their group assignment?

Blind study. Prevents bias from subject expectations.
Identify the relationship if data fit $Y=kX^2$ for constant $k$ .

$Y$ is proportional to $X^2$ . The relationship follows a quadratic pattern with $X$ .
Which hypothesis is tested by looking for evidence that contradicts it?

Null hypothesis. Scientists try to disprove it to support the alternative hypothesis.
Identify the supported claim if data show $Y=0$ when $X=0$ and $Y$ rises linearly with $X$ .

$Y$ is directly proportional to $X$ . Linear relationship passing through origin indicates direct proportionality.
What is a viewpoint in an ACT Science Comparing Viewpoints passage?

A scientist or student's stated explanation, claim, or model. Represents one scientist's interpretation or theoretical position.
Which term refers to data collected through direct measurement?

Empirical data. Based on observation and experimentation.
Which option describes the process of drawing conclusions from evidence?

Inference. Logical reasoning from observations to reach supported conclusions.
Which option best describes a distinguishing feature between two hypotheses?

A variable, mechanism, or condition one includes and the other does not. A factor that separates one hypothesis from another.
Which term refers to the likelihood of a result occurring by chance?

P-value. Lower values indicate less likely due to chance.
Which factor is crucial for the replicability of an experiment?

Detailed documentation of methods. Others must be able to repeat the procedure.
Which term describes the accuracy of a measurement or result?

Validity. Measures how well results reflect the true phenomenon.
What is a hypothesis?

A testable prediction or explanation for a phenomenon. Hypotheses must be specific and measurable to allow scientific testing.
What does it mean when two hypotheses are compatible?

Both can be true because they do not logically conflict. No logical contradiction exists between the two claims.
What does it mean if a result is statistically significant?

Unlikely to have occurred by chance, indicating a real effect. Low probability the result occurred randomly.
What does 'correlation' indicate in data analysis?

A relationship between two variables. Shows association but not necessarily causation.
Identify the viewpoint that agrees with: " $Y$ is independent of $X$ ." Viewpoint 1: $Y$ changes with $X$ . Viewpoint 2: $Y$ stays constant as $X$ changes.

Viewpoint 2. Independence means $Y$ doesn't change regardless of $X$ values.
What is the best way to handle unfamiliar scientific terms in a viewpoints passage?

Use context to map each term to its role in the claim or mechanism. Focus on function rather than memorizing scientific vocabulary.
Identify the role of a placebo in clinical trials.

To act as a control to measure treatment effects. Inactive treatment allows measurement of real effects.
What is a 'type II error' in hypothesis testing?

Failing to reject a false null hypothesis. False negative - missing a real effect.
Identify the term for an experiment conducted without a control group.

Uncontrolled experiment. Lacks comparison group to isolate variables.
Which statement is consistent with a positive correlation between $X$ and $Y$ ?

As $X$ increases, $Y$ increases. Positive correlation means variables move in the same direction.
Which method involves comparing results of an experiment with expected outcomes?

Analysis of variance. Compares multiple groups to identify differences.
What is the most reliable evidence source when viewpoints conflict with each other?

The experimental results, graphs, and tables in the passage. Actual data trump theoretical claims when they conflict.
Identify the method used to test the reliability of a hypothesis.

Replication of experiments. Independent repetition confirms the original findings are valid.
What is the primary goal of comparing different scientific viewpoints?

To evaluate the validity of each viewpoint. Comparing helps identify which explanations are supported by evidence.
Which term describes a statement that can be tested by an experiment?

Hypothesis. Must be falsifiable and measurable through experimentation.
What is the "mechanism" of a viewpoint in ACT Science terms?

The described process explaining how the outcome occurs. The step-by-step process explaining the cause-effect relationship.
What is the meaning of "refutes" in data-based viewpoint questions?

The data pattern contradicts the viewpoint's prediction. The data show the opposite of what was predicted.
What is the primary task in a Comparing Viewpoints passage on ACT Science?

Identify how each viewpoint differs and what evidence each uses. Focus on contrasting claims and supporting evidence for each position.
Which term describes a systematic error affecting measurements?

Bias. Systematic errors that skew results in one direction.
Define 'independent variable' in an experiment.

The variable that is manipulated by the researcher. Researcher controls this to test its effects.
Identify the variable manipulated by the researcher in an experiment.

Independent variable. The cause that researchers change to study its effects.
Identify the supported claim if data show $Y$ is constant for all tested $X$ values.

$Y$ does not depend on $X$ . Constant $Y$ regardless of $X$ shows no dependence relationship.
What is an independent variable?

A variable that is manipulated to observe effects on a dependent variable. The researcher controls this variable to test its impact.
What is 'statistical power' in hypothesis testing?

The probability of detecting an effect if there is one. Higher power means better chance of finding effects.
What is the primary difference between a hypothesis and a theory?

A hypothesis is a testable prediction; a theory is well-substantiated. Theories have extensive support while hypotheses are initial predictions.
Which term describes a hypothesis that has been repeatedly tested and confirmed?

Scientific theory. Extensive testing builds strong scientific support.
What is the independent variable in an experiment description?

The factor deliberately changed or compared by the investigator. The variable you manipulate to test its effect.
What does it mean when two hypotheses are mutually exclusive?

If one is true, the other cannot be true under the same conditions. Only one can be correct in any given situation.
Identify the relationship if data fit $Y=\frac{k}{X}$ for constant $k$ .

$Y$ is inversely proportional to $X$ . The relationship follows $Y$ decreasing as $X$ increases.
Identify the purpose of a control group in an experiment.

To provide a baseline for comparison. Controls remain unchanged to isolate the effect of the experimental variable.
What is the best first step when asked which viewpoint agrees with a statement?

Locate the statement's key claim and match it to a viewpoint's claim. Look for overlapping predictions or explanatory mechanisms.
Which option best indicates that a viewpoint is testable rather than purely descriptive?

It makes a prediction that could be checked with measurements. Testability requires specific, measurable predictions.
How do quantitative observations differ from qualitative ones?

Quantitative observations involve numerical data. Quantitative uses numbers; qualitative uses descriptions.
Define 'sample size' in the context of experiments.

The number of subjects or observations in a study. Determines how many participants are included.
What is the role of repeatability in scientific experiments?

To ensure reliability and validity of results. Repeated trials confirm results aren't due to chance or error.
Identify the term for a detailed explanation based on many observations.

Scientific theory. Theories are supported by extensive evidence and multiple studies.
What is the most direct way to compare two viewpoints quickly?

Compare their claims, key variables, and predicted outcomes. Focus on main differences in mechanisms and expected results.
What is the term for the logical reasoning used to derive conclusions?

Deductive reasoning. Moves from general principles to specific conclusions.
Which option best describes an anomaly in scientific research?

Data that does not fit expected patterns. Unexpected results that don't match predicted outcomes.
What does it mean if a viewpoint is qualitative rather than quantitative?

It describes direction or type of change without numerical values. Describes trends or patterns without specific measurements.
Identify the term for a potential explanation that is not yet tested.

Hypothesis. Requires testing through experimentation to become validated.
What is the term for a variable that may influence results but is not controlled?

Confounding variable. Uncontrolled factors that might affect the dependent variable.
Which viewpoint is more supported if an experiment isolates only variable $X$ and the effect still occurs?

The viewpoint claiming $X$ alone is sufficient to cause the effect. Isolating one variable tests its individual causal role.
What is a hypothesis in scientific research?

A testable statement predicting an outcome. Must be specific and measurable to enable testing.
Which option best describes an assumption in a viewpoint or hypothesis?

An unstated belief treated as true to support the claim. Often implicit premises that aren't directly stated but support the argument.
Which hypothesis is refuted if data show $Y$ decreases as $X$ increases? Hypothesis A: $Y$ increases with $X$ .

Hypothesis A. Data contradict the hypothesis's prediction of increasing $Y$ .
Which option best describes how to answer "Which viewpoint is most consistent with the passage?"

Select the viewpoint with predictions matching the provided results. Compare each viewpoint's predictions to the given data.
What is the primary function of a research hypothesis?

To propose a potential explanation or prediction. Guides investigation with specific testable prediction.
Which option best describes a qualitative observation?

Descriptive data without numerical measurement. Uses descriptions rather than numbers or measurements.
What is the definition of 'causation' in scientific terms?

The action of causing an effect. One factor directly produces a change.
Identify the main purpose of a control group in experiments.

To provide a baseline for comparison. Shows what happens without the experimental treatment.
Which term describes an educated guess based on observation?

Hypothesis. Based on prior knowledge and designed to be testable.
What is the role of an experimental group in research?

To test the effect of the independent variable. Receives the treatment being studied to measure its impact.
Identify the statistical test used to compare means of two groups.

T-test. Determines if difference between groups is significant.
What does it mean to falsify a hypothesis?

To demonstrate that a hypothesis is incorrect. Falsification provides evidence against a proposed explanation.
What is the purpose of a scientific model?

To represent and explain complex phenomena. Simplified version helps understand natural processes.
Which option best describes a key limitation when comparing viewpoints without data?

You can compare logic but cannot confirm which is correct. Without data, you can only assess internal consistency.
Which term best describes the systematic investigation to establish facts?

Scientific inquiry. Methodical approach to discovering knowledge.
Which term is used for the variable that is changed in an experiment?

Independent variable. The factor deliberately altered to observe its effects.
Identify the primary goal of hypothesis testing.

To determine the validity of a hypothesis. Tests whether the proposed explanation is correct.
Define 'bias' in the context of scientific research.

A systematic error that affects data validity. Skews results away from true values.
Which option explains the importance of peer review in science?

Ensures accuracy and credibility of research. Other experts evaluate methods and conclusions before publication.
Identify what "both viewpoints would agree" usually targets in a question.

A shared premise, definition, or observation stated in the passage. Look for common ground or shared basic assumptions.
What is the main function of a literature review in research?

To survey existing knowledge and identify gaps. Establishes foundation and context for new research.
Which option best describes a double-blind study?

Both subjects and researchers are unaware of group assignments. Eliminates bias from both participants and researchers.
Identify the viewpoint that agrees with: "Increasing $X$ causes $Y$ to decrease." Viewpoint A: $Y$ increases with $X$ . Viewpoint B: $Y$ decreases with $X$ .

Viewpoint B. Viewpoint B directly matches the stated negative relationship.
Which hypothesis is supported if data show $Y$ increases as $X$ increases? Hypothesis A: positive relationship. Hypothesis B: negative relationship.

Hypothesis A. Data showing positive correlation confirm Hypothesis A's prediction.

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