Variables resources

Task: Answer two questions about setting up a fair test and another about insulating houses. Assessment focus: controlling variables.

Students decide on the variables that will make an experiment about boiling water a fair test. Assessment focus: Recognising multiple variables.

From a diagram of an experimental set up, students answer questions based on fair testing principles. Questions cover the control of variables, and measurement of results.

Task: Identify the variables for testing how fresh water and salt water affect rusting. Assessment focus: planning a fair test.

Students indicate for each of six different variables those that need to be kept the same for an investigation about dissolving different types of sugar.

Students outline four ways of improving a given plan for an investigation to make it a fair test.

Task: Identify which variables should be kept the same to compare reaction times. Assessment focus: control of variables.