Theory
A well-supported explanation of natural events that is based on many observations, experiments, and pieces of evidence.
Science
A systematic way of learning about the natural world through observations, experiments, and analysis.
Scientific Method
A logical process used to investigate questions, including making observations, forming a hypothesis, testing it, collecting data, and drawing conclusions.
Prediction
A specific statement about what you think will happen in an experiment if your hypothesis is correct.
Hypothesis
A testable, educated explanation for an observation; usually written as an “If… then…” statement.
Variable
Any factor in an experiment that can change.
Controlled Variable (Constant)
A variable that is kept the same in all groups so it does not influence the results.
Confounding Variable
An uncontrolled factor that accidentally affects the results, making it harder to know what caused the outcome.
Independent Variable
The variable the scientist changes on purpose to test its effect.
Dependent Variable
The variable that is measured or observed; it changes in response to the independent variable.
Control Group
The group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment; used for comparison.
Experimental Group
The group that receives the treatment or the independent variable.
Biology
The study of living organisms and how they interact with each other and their environments.
Homeostasis
The process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment (like body temperature or pH).
Atom
The smallest unit of matter that still has the properties of an element.
Molecule
Two or more atoms chemically bonded together.
Organelle
A specialized structure inside a cell that performs a specific job (like the nucleus or mitochondria).
Cell
The basic unit of structure and function in living organisms; the smallest unit considered “alive.”
Tissue
A group of similar cells working together to perform a function.
Organ
A structure made of different tissues working together for a specific function (like the heart or lungs).
Organ System
A group of organs that work together to perform major body functions (like the digestive system).
Organism
An individual living thing (e.g., a human, a tree, a bacterium).
Population
A group of organisms of the same species living in the same area.
Community
All the populations of different species living and interacting in an area.
