Developing a Hypothesis in Natural Sciences

Overview: In previous modules, you identified an issue, developed a research question, and examined sources that could help you explore the issue. You also considered the scientific principles related to your topic, and how you might communicate your findings to a specific audience. Building on these elements, you will formulate a hypothesis related to your issue. Then, applying what you learned about the process of science, you will explain the next steps that natural scientists would take to support or refute your hypothesis. What kind of evidence would they look for? What kind of tests they need to conduct? Throughout this course, you explored a variety of specific cases in which natural scientists addressed issues, tested hypotheses, and developed solutions to problems. Many of their solutions have become key discoveries that we rely on today for health, safety, and other practical uses. So, as you consider your hypothesis and the next steps a scientist would take, reflect back on these examples. This reflection is the final piece of your planning document, and you will use it to develop your presentation in Module 8.

Prompt: You will build on the elements you composed in your first draft and develop your hypothesis. After you have your hypothesis, explain what steps a natural scientist would take to either refute or support your hypothesis. By the end of Module Six, you will fine tune the entire planning document to be submitted to your instructor.

Specifically, the following critical elements must be addressed:

I. Introduction: At this point, you should have received feedback from your instructor. For this second draft, review and make any necessary revisions or adjustments to the following elements:

a. Describe the issue in the natural sciences that you have selected to investigate. Why is this issue significant? (You identified this issue in Module One, but how would you revise this piece now that you have received instructor feedback and investigated your sources?)

b. Describe at least three science resources that you could use to investigate the issue you selected. Your sources must be relevant to your issue
and must be of an academic nature appropriate for the issue. In your description, consider questions such as: What are the similarities and differences in the content of your sources? What makes them appropriate and relevant for investigating your issue? What was your thought process when you were searching for sources? How did you make choices?

c. Based on your review of science resources, develop a specific question related to the issue you selected. In other words, what would you like to know more about?

II. Body: You should also receive instructor feedback about this section and continue to consider your evidence. For this second draft, review these sections and make any necessary revisions or adjustments to the following elements:

a. Identify an audience that would be interested in your issue and the question you developed. For example, who would benefit most from hearing your message, or who could best help in addressing the issue?

b. Describe how and why you can tailor your message to your audience, providing specific examples. For example, will your audience understand scientific terminology and principles, or will you need to explain them? How will you communicate effectively with your audience?

c. Identify the natural science principle(s) that apply to your question and issue. For example, if your issue is global climate change, the principle
you might identify is that the sun is the primary source of energy for Earth’s climate system.