Examples

Hypothesis For Kids

hypothesis definition for child

Crafting a hypothesis isn’t just for scientists in white lab coats; even young budding researchers can join in the fun! When kids learn to frame their curious wonders as hypothesis statements, they pave the way for exciting discoveries. Our guide breaks down the world of hypothesis writing into kid-friendly chunks, complete with relatable thesis statement examples and easy-to-follow tips. Dive in to spark a love for inquiry and nurture young scientific minds!

What is an example of a Hypothesis for Kids?

Question: Do plants grow taller when they are watered with coffee instead of water?

Hypothesis: If I water a plant with coffee instead of water, then the plant will not grow as tall because coffee might have substances that aren’t good for plants.

This hypothesis is based on a simple observation or question a child might have, and it predicts a specific outcome (the plant not growing as tall) due to a specific condition (being watered with coffee). It’s presented in simple language suitable for kids.

100 Kids Hypothesis Statement Examples

Kids Hypothesis Statement Examples

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Children’s innate curiosity lays the foundation for numerous questions about the world around them. Framing these questions as good hypothesis statements can transform them into exciting learning experiments. Presented below are relatable and straightforward examples crafted especially for young minds, offering them a structured way to articulate their wonders and predictions.

  • Sunlight & Plant Growth : If a plant gets more sunlight, then it will grow taller.
  • Sugary Drinks & Tooth Decay : Drinking sugary drinks daily will lead to faster tooth decay.
  • Chocolates & Energy : Eating chocolate will make me feel more energetic.
  • Moon Phases & Sleep : I’ll sleep more during a full moon night.
  • Homework & Weekend Moods : If I finish my homework on Friday, I’ll be happier over the weekend.
  • Pets & Happiness : Owning a pet will make a child happier.
  • Rain & Worms : Worms come out more after it rains.
  • Shadows & Time of Day : Shadows are longer in the evening than at noon.
  • Snow & School Holidays : More snow means there’s a better chance of school being canceled.
  • Ice Cream & Brain Freeze : Eating ice cream too fast will give me a brain freeze.
  • Video Games & Dreams : Playing video games before bed might make my dreams more vivid.
  • Green Vegetables & Strength : Eating more green vegetables will make me stronger.
  • Bicycles & Balance : The more I practice, the better I’ll get at riding my bike without training wheels.
  • Stars & Wishes : If I wish on the first star I see at night, my wish might come true.
  • Cartoons & Laughing : Watching my favorite cartoon will always make me laugh.
  • Soda & Bone Health : Drinking soda every day will make my bones weaker.
  • Beach Visits & Sunburn : If I don’t wear sunscreen at the beach, I’ll get sunburned.
  • Loud Noises & Pet Behavior : My cat hides when she hears loud noises.
  • Bedtime & Morning Energy : Going to bed early will make me feel more energetic in the morning.
  • Healthy Snacks & Hunger : Eating a healthy snack will keep me full for longer. …
  • Toys & Sharing : The more toys I have, the more I want to share with my friends.
  • Homemade Cookies & Taste : Homemade cookies always taste better than store-bought ones.
  • Books & Imagination : The more books I read, the more adventures I can imagine.
  • Jumping & Height : The more I practice, the higher I can jump.
  • Singing & Mood : Singing my favorite song always makes me happy.
  • Snowmen & Temperature : If the temperature rises, my snowman will melt faster.
  • Costumes & Play : Wearing a costume will make playtime more fun.
  • Gardening & Patience : Waiting for my plants to grow teaches me patience.
  • Night Lights & Sleep : Having a night light makes it easier for me to sleep.
  • Handwriting & Practice : The more I practice, the better my handwriting will become.
  • Painting & Creativity : Using more colors in my painting lets me express my creativity better.
  • Puzzles & Problem Solving : The more puzzles I solve, the better I become at problem-solving.
  • Dancing & Coordination : The more I dance, the more coordinated I will become.
  • Stargazing & Constellations : If I stargaze every night, I’ll recognize more constellations.
  • Bird Watching & Species Knowledge : The more I watch birds, the more species I can identify.
  • Cooking & Skill : If I help in the kitchen often, I’ll become a better cook.
  • Swimming & Confidence : The more I swim, the more confident I become in the water.
  • Trees & Birds’ Nests : The taller the tree, the more likely it is to have birds’ nests.
  • Roller Skating & Balance : If I roller skate every weekend, I’ll improve my balance.
  • Drawing & Observation : The more I draw, the better I become at observing details.
  • Sandcastles & Water : If I use wet sand, I can build a stronger sandcastle.
  • Hiking & Endurance : The more I hike, the farther I can walk without getting tired.
  • Camping & Outdoor Skills : If I go camping often, I’ll learn more about surviving outdoors.
  • Magic Tricks & Practice : The more I practice a magic trick, the better I’ll get at performing it.
  • Stickers & Collection : If I collect stickers, my album will become more colorful.
  • Board Games & Strategy : The more board games I play, the better strategist I’ll become.
  • Pets & Responsibility : The more I take care of my pet, the more responsible I become.
  • Music & Concentration : Listening to calm music while studying will help me concentrate better.
  • Photographs & Memories : The more photos I take, the more memories I can preserve.
  • Rainbows & Rain : If it rains while the sun is out, I might see a rainbow.
  • Museums & Knowledge : Every time I visit a museum, I learn something new.
  • Fruits & Health : Eating more fruits will keep me healthier.
  • Stories & Vocabulary : The more stories I listen to, the more new words I learn.
  • Trees & Fresh Air : The more trees there are in a park, the fresher the air will be.
  • Diary & Feelings : Writing in my diary helps me understand my feelings better.
  • Planets & Telescopes : If I look through a telescope, I’ll see more planets clearly.
  • Crafting & Creativity : The more crafts I make, the more creative I become.
  • Snowflakes & Patterns : Every snowflake has a unique pattern.
  • Jokes & Laughter : The funnier the joke, the louder I’ll laugh.
  • Riddles & Thinking : Solving riddles makes me think harder.
  • Nature Walks & Observations : The quieter I am on a nature walk, the more animals I’ll spot.
  • Building Blocks & Structures : The more blocks I use, the taller my tower will be.
  • Kites & Wind : If there’s more wind, my kite will fly higher.
  • Popcorn & Movie Nights : Watching a movie with popcorn makes it more enjoyable.
  • Stars & Wishes : If I see a shooting star, I should make a wish.
  • Diets & Energy : Eating a balanced diet gives me more energy for playtime.
  • Clay & Sculptures : The more I play with clay, the better my sculptures will be.
  • Insects & Magnifying Glass : Using a magnifying glass will let me see more details of tiny insects.
  • Aquarium Visits & Marine Knowledge : Every time I visit the aquarium, I discover a new marine creature.
  • Yoga & Flexibility : If I practice yoga daily, I’ll become more flexible.
  • Toothpaste & Bubbles : The more toothpaste I use, the more bubbles I’ll get while brushing.
  • Journals & Memories : Writing in my journal every day helps me remember special moments.
  • Piggy Banks & Savings : The more coins I save, the heavier my piggy bank will get.
  • Baking & Measurements : If I measure ingredients accurately, my cake will turn out better.
  • Coloring Books & Art Skills : The more I color, the better I get at staying inside the lines.
  • Picnics & Outdoor Fun : Having a picnic makes a sunny day even more enjoyable.
  • Recycling & Environment : The more I recycle, the cleaner my environment will be.
  • Treasure Hunts & Discoveries : Every treasure hunt has a new discovery waiting.
  • Milk & Bone Health : Drinking milk daily will make my bones stronger.
  • Puppet Shows & Stories : The more puppet shows I watch, the more stories I learn.
  • Field Trips & Learning : Every field trip to a new place teaches me something different.
  • Chores & Responsibility : The more chores I do, the more responsible I feel.
  • Fishing & Patience : Fishing teaches me to be patient while waiting for a catch.
  • Fairy Tales & Imagination : Listening to fairy tales expands my imagination.
  • Homemade Pizza & Toppings : The more toppings I add, the tastier my homemade pizza will be.
  • Gardens & Butterflies : If I plant more flowers, I’ll see more butterflies in my garden.
  • Raincoats & Puddles : Wearing a raincoat lets me jump in puddles without getting wet.
  • Gymnastics & Balance : The more I practice gymnastics, the better my balance will be.
  • Origami & Craft Skills : The more origami I fold, the better my craft skills become.
  • Basketball & Shooting Skills : The more I practice, the better I get at shooting baskets.
  • Fireflies & Night Beauty : Catching fireflies makes summer nights magical.
  • Books & Knowledge : The more books I read, the smarter I become.
  • Pillows & Forts : With more pillows, I can build a bigger fort.
  • Lemonade & Summers : Drinking lemonade makes hot summer days refreshing.
  • Bicycles & Balance : The more I practice, the better I get at riding my bike without training wheels.
  • Pencils & Drawings : If I have colored pencils, my drawings will be more colorful.
  • Ice Cream & Happiness : Eating ice cream always makes me happy.
  • Beach Visits & Shell Collections : Every time I visit the beach, I find new shells for my collection.
  • Jump Ropes & Fitness : The more I jump rope, the fitter I become.
  • Tea Parties & Imagination : Hosting tea parties lets my imagination run wild.

Simple Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids

Simple hypothesis are straightforward predictions that can be tested easily. They help children understand the relationship between two variables. Here are some examples tailored just for kids.

  • Plants & Sunlight : Plants placed near the window will grow taller than those in the dark.
  • Chocolates & Happiness : Eating chocolates can make kids feel happier.
  • Rain & Puddles : The more it rains, the bigger the puddles become.
  • Homework & Learning : Doing homework helps kids understand lessons better.
  • Toys & Sharing : Sharing toys with friends makes playtime more fun.
  • Pets & Care : Taking care of a pet fish helps it live longer.
  • Storytime & Sleep : Listening to a bedtime story helps kids sleep faster.
  • Brushing & Cavity : Brushing teeth daily prevents cavities.
  • Games & Skill : Playing a new game every day improves problem-solving skills.
  • Baking & Patience : Waiting for cookies to bake teaches patience.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids Psychology

Child psychology hypothesis delves into how kids think, behave, and process emotions. These hypotheses help understand the psychological aspects of children’s behaviors.

  • Emotions & Colors : Kids might feel calm when surrounded by blue and energetic with red.
  • Friendship & Self-esteem : Making friends can boost a child’s self-confidence.
  • Learning Styles & Memory : Some kids remember better by seeing, while others by doing.
  • Play & Development : Pretend play is crucial for cognitive development.
  • Rewards & Motivation : Giving small rewards can motivate kids to finish tasks.
  • Music & Mood : Listening to soft music can calm a child’s anxiety.
  • Sibling Bonds & Sharing : Having siblings can influence a child’s willingness to share.
  • Feedback & Performance : Positive feedback can improve a kid’s academic performance.
  • Outdoor Play & Attention Span : Playing outside can help kids concentrate better in class.
  • Dreams & Reality : Kids sometimes can’t differentiate between dreams and reality.

Hypothesis Examples in Kid Friendly Words

Phrasing hypothesis in simple words makes it relatable and easier for kids to grasp. Here are examples with kid-friendly language.

  • Socks & Warmth : Wearing socks will keep my toes toasty.
  • Jumping & Energy : The more I jump, the more energy I feel.
  • Sandcastles & Water : A little water makes my sandcastle stand tall.
  • Stickers & Smiles : Getting a sticker makes my day shine brighter.
  • Rainbows & Rain : After the rain, I might see a rainbow.
  • Slides & Speed : The taller the slide, the faster I go.
  • Hugs & Love : Giving hugs makes me and my friends feel loved.
  • Stars & Counting : The darker it is, the more stars I can count.
  • Paint & Mess : The more paint I use, the messier it gets.
  • Bubbles & Wind : If I blow my bubble wand, the wind will carry them high.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids in Research

Even in a research setting, research hypothesis should be age-appropriate for kids. These examples focus on concepts children might encounter in structured studies.

  • Reading & Vocabulary : Kids who read daily might have a richer vocabulary.
  • Games & Math Skills : Playing number games can improve math skills.
  • Experiments & Curiosity : Conducting science experiments can make kids more curious.
  • Doodles & Creativity : Drawing daily might enhance a child’s creativity.
  • Learning Methods & Retention : Kids who learn with visuals might remember lessons better.
  • Discussions & Understanding : Talking about a topic can deepen understanding.
  • Observation & Knowledge : Observing nature can increase a kid’s knowledge about the environment.
  • Puzzles & Cognitive Skills : Solving puzzles regularly might enhance logical thinking.
  • Music & Rhythmic Abilities : Kids who practice music might develop better rhythm skills.
  • Teamwork & Social Skills : Group projects can boost a child’s social skills.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids Science Fair

Science fairs are a chance for kids to delve into the world of experiments and observations. Here are hypotheses suitable for these events.

  • Magnet & Metals : Certain metals will be attracted to a magnet.
  • Plants & Colored Light : Plants might grow differently under blue and red lights.
  • Eggs & Vinegar : An egg in vinegar might become bouncy.
  • Solar Panels & Sunlight : Solar panels will generate more power on sunny days.
  • Volcanoes & Eruptions : Mixing baking soda and vinegar will make a mini eruption.
  • Mirrors & Reflection : Shiny surfaces can reflect light better than dull ones.
  • Battery & Energy : Fresh batteries will make a toy run faster.
  • Density & Floating : Objects with lower density will float in water.
  • Shadows & Light Source : Moving the light source will change the shadow’s direction.
  • Freezing & States : Water turns solid when kept in the freezer.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Science Experiments

Experiments let kids test out their predictions in real-time. Here are hypotheses crafted for various scientific tests.

  • Salt & Boiling Point : Adding salt will make water boil at a higher temperature.
  • Plants & Music : Playing music might affect a plant’s growth rate.
  • Rust & Moisture : Metals kept in a moist environment will rust faster.
  • Candles & Oxygen : A candle will burn out faster in an enclosed jar.
  • Fruits & Browning : Lemon juice can prevent cut fruits from browning.
  • Yeast & Sugar : Adding sugar will make yeast activate more vigorously.
  • Density & Layers : Different liquids will form layers based on their density.
  • Acids & Bases : Red cabbage juice will change color in acids and bases.
  • Soil Types & Water : Sandy soil will drain water faster than clay.
  • Thermometers & Temperatures : Thermometers will show higher readings in the sun.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids At Home

These hypotheses are crafted for experiments and observations kids can easily make at home, using everyday items.

  • Chores & Time : Setting a timer will make me finish my chores faster.
  • Pets & Behavior : My cat sleeps more during the day than at night.
  • Recycling & Environment : Recycling more can reduce the trash in my home.
  • Cooking & Tastes : Adding spices will change the taste of my food.
  • Family Time & Bonding : Playing board games strengthens our family bond.
  • Cleaning & Organization : Organizing my toys daily will keep my room tidier.
  • Watering & Plant Health : Watering my plant regularly will keep its leaves green.
  • Decor & Mood : Changing the room decor can influence my mood.
  • Journals & Memories : Writing in my journal daily will help me remember fun events.
  • Photos & Growth : Taking monthly photos will show how much I’ve grown.

How do you write a hypothesis for kids? – A Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Start with Curiosity Begin with a question that your child is curious about. This could be something simple, like “Why is the sky blue?” or “Do plants need sunlight to grow?”

Step 2: Observe and Research Before formulating the hypothesis, encourage your child to observe the world around them. If possible, read or watch videos about the topic to gather information. The idea is to get a general understanding of the subject.

Step 3: Keep it Simple For kids, it’s essential to keep the hypothesis straightforward and concise. Use language that is easy to understand and relatable to their age.

Step 4: Make a Predictable Statement Help your child frame their hypothesis as an “If… then…” statement. For example, “If I water a plant every day, then it will grow taller.”

Step 5: Ensure Testability Ensure that the hypothesis can be tested using simple experiments or observations. It should be something they can prove or disprove through hands-on activities.

Step 6: Avoid Certainty Teach kids that a hypothesis is not a definitive statement of fact but rather a best guess based on what they know. It’s okay if the hypothesis turns out to be wrong; the learning process is more important.

Step 7: Review and Refine After forming the initial hypothesis, review it with your child. Discuss if it can be made simpler or clearer. Refinement aids in better understanding and testing.

Step 8: Test the Hypothesis This is the fun part! Plan an experiment or set of observations to test the hypothesis. Whether the hypothesis is proven correct or not, the experience provides a learning opportunity.

Tips for Writing Hypothesis for Kids

  • Encourage Curiosity : Always encourage your child to ask questions about the world around them. It’s the first step to formulating a hypothesis.
  • Use Familiar Language : Use words that the child understands and can relate to. Avoid jargon or technical terms.
  • Make it Fun : Turn the process of forming a hypothesis into a game or a storytelling session. This will keep kids engaged.
  • Use Visual Aids : Kids often respond well to visuals. Drawing or using props can help in understanding and formulating the hypothesis.
  • Stay Open-minded : It’s essential to teach kids that it’s okay if their hypothesis is wrong. The process of discovery and learning is what’s crucial.
  • Practice Regularly : The more often kids practice forming hypotheses, the better they get at it. Use everyday situations as opportunities.
  • Link to Real-life Scenarios : Relate the hypothesis to real-life situations or personal experiences. For instance, if discussing plants, you can relate it to a plant you have at home.
  • Collaborate : Sometimes, two heads are better than one. Encourage group activities where kids can discuss and come up with hypotheses together.
  • Encourage Documentation : Keeping a journal or notebook where they document their hypotheses and results can be a great learning tool.
  • Celebrate Efforts : Regardless of whether the hypothesis was correct, celebrate the effort and the learning journey. This reinforces the idea that the process is more important than the outcome.

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Definition of hypothesis

Did you know.

The Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory

A hypothesis is an assumption, an idea that is proposed for the sake of argument so that it can be tested to see if it might be true.

In the scientific method, the hypothesis is constructed before any applicable research has been done, apart from a basic background review. You ask a question, read up on what has been studied before, and then form a hypothesis.

A hypothesis is usually tentative; it's an assumption or suggestion made strictly for the objective of being tested.

A theory , in contrast, is a principle that has been formed as an attempt to explain things that have already been substantiated by data. It is used in the names of a number of principles accepted in the scientific community, such as the Big Bang Theory . Because of the rigors of experimentation and control, it is understood to be more likely to be true than a hypothesis is.

In non-scientific use, however, hypothesis and theory are often used interchangeably to mean simply an idea, speculation, or hunch, with theory being the more common choice.

Since this casual use does away with the distinctions upheld by the scientific community, hypothesis and theory are prone to being wrongly interpreted even when they are encountered in scientific contexts—or at least, contexts that allude to scientific study without making the critical distinction that scientists employ when weighing hypotheses and theories.

The most common occurrence is when theory is interpreted—and sometimes even gleefully seized upon—to mean something having less truth value than other scientific principles. (The word law applies to principles so firmly established that they are almost never questioned, such as the law of gravity.)

This mistake is one of projection: since we use theory in general to mean something lightly speculated, then it's implied that scientists must be talking about the same level of uncertainty when they use theory to refer to their well-tested and reasoned principles.

The distinction has come to the forefront particularly on occasions when the content of science curricula in schools has been challenged—notably, when a school board in Georgia put stickers on textbooks stating that evolution was "a theory, not a fact, regarding the origin of living things." As Kenneth R. Miller, a cell biologist at Brown University, has said , a theory "doesn’t mean a hunch or a guess. A theory is a system of explanations that ties together a whole bunch of facts. It not only explains those facts, but predicts what you ought to find from other observations and experiments.”

While theories are never completely infallible, they form the basis of scientific reasoning because, as Miller said "to the best of our ability, we’ve tested them, and they’ve held up."

  • proposition
  • supposition

hypothesis , theory , law mean a formula derived by inference from scientific data that explains a principle operating in nature.

hypothesis implies insufficient evidence to provide more than a tentative explanation.

theory implies a greater range of evidence and greater likelihood of truth.

law implies a statement of order and relation in nature that has been found to be invariable under the same conditions.

Examples of hypothesis in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hypothesis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Greek, from hypotithenai to put under, suppose, from hypo- + tithenai to put — more at do

1641, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing hypothesis

  • counter - hypothesis
  • nebular hypothesis
  • null hypothesis
  • planetesimal hypothesis
  • Whorfian hypothesis

Articles Related to hypothesis

hypothesis

This is the Difference Between a...

This is the Difference Between a Hypothesis and a Theory

In scientific reasoning, they're two completely different things

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Cite this Entry

“Hypothesis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypothesis. Accessed 12 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of hypothesis, medical definition, medical definition of hypothesis, more from merriam-webster on hypothesis.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hypothesis

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What is a hypothesis?

No.  A hypothesis is sometimes described as an educated guess.  That's not the same thing as a guess and not really a good description of a hypothesis either.  Let's try working through an example.

If you put an ice cube on a plate and place it on the table, what will happen?  A very young child might guess that it will still be there in a couple of hours.  Most people would agree with the hypothesis that:

An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes.

You could put sit and watch the ice cube melt and think you've proved a hypothesis.  But you will have missed some important steps.

For a good science fair project you need to do quite a bit of research before any experimenting.  Start by finding some information about how and why water melts.  You could read a book, do a bit of Google searching, or even ask an expert.  For our example, you could learn about how temperature and air pressure can change the state of water.  Don't forget that elevation above sea level changes air pressure too.

Now, using all your research, try to restate that hypothesis.

An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes in a room at sea level with a temperature of 20C or 68F.

But wait a minute.  What is the ice made from?  What if the ice cube was made from salt water, or you sprinkled salt on a regular ice cube?  Time for some more research.  Would adding salt make a difference?  Turns out it does.  Would other chemicals change the melting time?

Using this new information, let's try that hypothesis again.

An ice cube made with tap water will melt in less than 30 minutes in a room at sea level with a temperature of 20C or 68F.

Does that seem like an educated guess?  No, it sounds like you are stating the obvious.

At this point, it is obvious only because of your research.  You haven't actually done the experiment.  Now it's time to run the experiment to support the hypothesis.

A hypothesis isn't an educated guess.  It is a tentative explanation for an observation, phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation.

Once you do the experiment and find out if it supports the hypothesis, it becomes part of scientific theory.

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(Definition of hypothesis from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

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Definition of hypothesis noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

  • to formulate/confirm a hypothesis
  • a hypothesis about the function of dreams
  • There is little evidence to support these hypotheses.
  • formulate/​advance a theory/​hypothesis
  • build/​construct/​create/​develop a simple/​theoretical/​mathematical model
  • develop/​establish/​provide/​use a theoretical/​conceptual framework
  • advance/​argue/​develop the thesis that…
  • explore an idea/​a concept/​a hypothesis
  • make a prediction/​an inference
  • base a prediction/​your calculations on something
  • investigate/​evaluate/​accept/​challenge/​reject a theory/​hypothesis/​model
  • design an experiment/​a questionnaire/​a study/​a test
  • do research/​an experiment/​an analysis
  • make observations/​measurements/​calculations
  • carry out/​conduct/​perform an experiment/​a test/​a longitudinal study/​observations/​clinical trials
  • run an experiment/​a simulation/​clinical trials
  • repeat an experiment/​a test/​an analysis
  • replicate a study/​the results/​the findings
  • observe/​study/​examine/​investigate/​assess a pattern/​a process/​a behaviour
  • fund/​support the research/​project/​study
  • seek/​provide/​get/​secure funding for research
  • collect/​gather/​extract data/​information
  • yield data/​evidence/​similar findings/​the same results
  • analyse/​examine the data/​soil samples/​a specimen
  • consider/​compare/​interpret the results/​findings
  • fit the data/​model
  • confirm/​support/​verify a prediction/​a hypothesis/​the results/​the findings
  • prove a conjecture/​hypothesis/​theorem
  • draw/​make/​reach the same conclusions
  • read/​review the records/​literature
  • describe/​report an experiment/​a study
  • present/​publish/​summarize the results/​findings
  • present/​publish/​read/​review/​cite a paper in a scientific journal
  • Her hypothesis concerns the role of electromagnetic radiation.
  • Her study is based on the hypothesis that language simplification is possible.
  • It is possible to make a hypothesis on the basis of this graph.
  • None of the hypotheses can be rejected at this stage.
  • Scientists have proposed a bold hypothesis.
  • She used this data to test her hypothesis
  • The hypothesis predicts that children will perform better on task A than on task B.
  • The results confirmed his hypothesis on the use of modal verbs.
  • These observations appear to support our working hypothesis.
  • a speculative hypothesis concerning the nature of matter
  • an interesting hypothesis about the development of language
  • Advances in genetics seem to confirm these hypotheses.
  • His hypothesis about what dreams mean provoked a lot of debate.
  • Research supports the hypothesis that language skills are centred in the left side of the brain.
  • The survey will be used to test the hypothesis that people who work outside the home are fitter and happier.
  • This economic model is really a working hypothesis.
  • speculative
  • concern something
  • be based on something
  • predict something
  • on a/​the hypothesis
  • hypothesis about
  • hypothesis concerning

Want to learn more?

Find out which words work together and produce more natural-sounding English with the Oxford Collocations Dictionary app. Try it for free as part of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.

hypothesis definition for child

Experimenters may test and reject several hypotheses, before solving the problem or reaching a satisfactory theory.

A 'working hypothesis' is just a rough kind of hypothesis that is provisionally accepted as a basis for further research. [5] The hope is that a theory will be produced, even if the hypothesis ultimately fails. [6] [7]

Hypotheses are especially important in science. Several philosophers have said that without hypotheses, there could be no science. [8] In recent years, philosophers of science have tried to integrate the various approaches to testing hypotheses (and the scientific method in general), to form a more complete system. The point is that hypotheses are suggested ideas , which are then tested by experiments or observations .

In statistics , people talk about correlation : correlation is how closely related two events or phenomena are. A proposition (or hypothesis) that two events are related cannot be tested in the same way as a law of nature can be tested. An example would be to see if some drug is effective to treat a given medical condition. Even if there is a strong correlation that indicates that this is the case, some samples would still not fit the hypothesis.

There are two hypotheses in statistical tests, called the null hypothesis , often written as [math]\displaystyle{ H_0 }[/math] , and the alternative hypothesis , often written as [math]\displaystyle{ H_a }[/math] . [9] The null hypothesis states that there is no link between the phenomena, [10] and is usually assumed to be true until it can be proven wrong beyond a reasonable doubt. [11] The alternative hypothesis states that there is some kind of link. It is usually the opposite of the null hypothesis, and is what one would conclude if null hypothesis is rejected. [12] The alternative hypothesis may take several forms. It can be two-sided (for example: there is some effect, in a yet unknown direction) or one-sided (the direction of the supposed relation, positive or negative, is fixed in advance). [11]

Hypothesis Media

hypothesis definition for child

The hypothesis of Andreas Cellarius , showing the planetary motions in eccentric and epicyclical orbits .

Related pages

  • Falsifiability
  • Gaia hypothesis
  • Null hypothesis
  • Occam's razor
  • Statistical hypothesis test
  • Thought experiment
  • ↑ The term comes from the Greek , hypotithenai meaning "to put under" or "to suppose".
  • ↑ Bunge, Mario 1967. Scientific research I: the search for system . Berlin: Springer Verlag, Chapter 5, p222.
  • ↑ Richard Feynman (1965) The character of physical law . p156
  • ↑ Oxford Dictionary of Sports Science & Medicine Eprint via Answers.com
  • ↑ See in "hypothesis", Century Dictionary Supplement , v. 1, 1909, New York: Century Company. Reprinted, v. 11, p. 616 (via Internet Archive ) of the Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia , 1911.
  • ↑ Schick, Theodore; Vaughn, Lewis (2002). How to think about weird things: critical thinking for a New Age . Boston: McGraw-Hill Higher Education. ISBN   0-7674-2048-9 .
  • ↑ Medawar P.B. & J.S. 1983. Aristotle to zoos: a philosophical dictionary of biology . Harvard University Press, p148. ISBN   0-674-04537-8
  • ↑ "List of Probability and Statistics Symbols" . Math Vault . 2020-04-26 . Retrieved 2020-09-22 .
  • ↑ or that the link does not have the form given by the alternative hypothesis
  • ↑ 11.0 11.1 "Null and Alternative Hypotheses | Introduction to Statistics" . courses.lumenlearning.com . Retrieved 2020-09-22 .
  • ↑ "Introductory Statistics: Null and Alternative Hypotheses" . opentextbc.ca . Archived from the original on June 11, 2021 . Retrieved September 22, 2020 .

Other websites

  • Research and evaluation glossary
  • Analysis and synthesis - on scientific method, based on a study by Bernhard Riemann from the Swedish Morphological Society

Research Hypothesis In Psychology: Types, & Examples

Saul Mcleod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul Mcleod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

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On This Page:

A research hypothesis, in its plural form “hypotheses,” is a specific, testable prediction about the anticipated results of a study, established at its outset. It is a key component of the scientific method .

Hypotheses connect theory to data and guide the research process towards expanding scientific understanding

Some key points about hypotheses:

  • A hypothesis expresses an expected pattern or relationship. It connects the variables under investigation.
  • It is stated in clear, precise terms before any data collection or analysis occurs. This makes the hypothesis testable.
  • A hypothesis must be falsifiable. It should be possible, even if unlikely in practice, to collect data that disconfirms rather than supports the hypothesis.
  • Hypotheses guide research. Scientists design studies to explicitly evaluate hypotheses about how nature works.
  • For a hypothesis to be valid, it must be testable against empirical evidence. The evidence can then confirm or disprove the testable predictions.
  • Hypotheses are informed by background knowledge and observation, but go beyond what is already known to propose an explanation of how or why something occurs.
Predictions typically arise from a thorough knowledge of the research literature, curiosity about real-world problems or implications, and integrating this to advance theory. They build on existing literature while providing new insight.

Types of Research Hypotheses

Alternative hypothesis.

The research hypothesis is often called the alternative or experimental hypothesis in experimental research.

It typically suggests a potential relationship between two key variables: the independent variable, which the researcher manipulates, and the dependent variable, which is measured based on those changes.

The alternative hypothesis states a relationship exists between the two variables being studied (one variable affects the other).

A hypothesis is a testable statement or prediction about the relationship between two or more variables. It is a key component of the scientific method. Some key points about hypotheses:

  • Important hypotheses lead to predictions that can be tested empirically. The evidence can then confirm or disprove the testable predictions.

In summary, a hypothesis is a precise, testable statement of what researchers expect to happen in a study and why. Hypotheses connect theory to data and guide the research process towards expanding scientific understanding.

An experimental hypothesis predicts what change(s) will occur in the dependent variable when the independent variable is manipulated.

It states that the results are not due to chance and are significant in supporting the theory being investigated.

The alternative hypothesis can be directional, indicating a specific direction of the effect, or non-directional, suggesting a difference without specifying its nature. It’s what researchers aim to support or demonstrate through their study.

Null Hypothesis

The null hypothesis states no relationship exists between the two variables being studied (one variable does not affect the other). There will be no changes in the dependent variable due to manipulating the independent variable.

It states results are due to chance and are not significant in supporting the idea being investigated.

The null hypothesis, positing no effect or relationship, is a foundational contrast to the research hypothesis in scientific inquiry. It establishes a baseline for statistical testing, promoting objectivity by initiating research from a neutral stance.

Many statistical methods are tailored to test the null hypothesis, determining the likelihood of observed results if no true effect exists.

This dual-hypothesis approach provides clarity, ensuring that research intentions are explicit, and fosters consistency across scientific studies, enhancing the standardization and interpretability of research outcomes.

Nondirectional Hypothesis

A non-directional hypothesis, also known as a two-tailed hypothesis, predicts that there is a difference or relationship between two variables but does not specify the direction of this relationship.

It merely indicates that a change or effect will occur without predicting which group will have higher or lower values.

For example, “There is a difference in performance between Group A and Group B” is a non-directional hypothesis.

Directional Hypothesis

A directional (one-tailed) hypothesis predicts the nature of the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable. It predicts in which direction the change will take place. (i.e., greater, smaller, less, more)

It specifies whether one variable is greater, lesser, or different from another, rather than just indicating that there’s a difference without specifying its nature.

For example, “Exercise increases weight loss” is a directional hypothesis.

hypothesis

Falsifiability

The Falsification Principle, proposed by Karl Popper , is a way of demarcating science from non-science. It suggests that for a theory or hypothesis to be considered scientific, it must be testable and irrefutable.

Falsifiability emphasizes that scientific claims shouldn’t just be confirmable but should also have the potential to be proven wrong.

It means that there should exist some potential evidence or experiment that could prove the proposition false.

However many confirming instances exist for a theory, it only takes one counter observation to falsify it. For example, the hypothesis that “all swans are white,” can be falsified by observing a black swan.

For Popper, science should attempt to disprove a theory rather than attempt to continually provide evidence to support a research hypothesis.

Can a Hypothesis be Proven?

Hypotheses make probabilistic predictions. They state the expected outcome if a particular relationship exists. However, a study result supporting a hypothesis does not definitively prove it is true.

All studies have limitations. There may be unknown confounding factors or issues that limit the certainty of conclusions. Additional studies may yield different results.

In science, hypotheses can realistically only be supported with some degree of confidence, not proven. The process of science is to incrementally accumulate evidence for and against hypothesized relationships in an ongoing pursuit of better models and explanations that best fit the empirical data. But hypotheses remain open to revision and rejection if that is where the evidence leads.
  • Disproving a hypothesis is definitive. Solid disconfirmatory evidence will falsify a hypothesis and require altering or discarding it based on the evidence.
  • However, confirming evidence is always open to revision. Other explanations may account for the same results, and additional or contradictory evidence may emerge over time.

We can never 100% prove the alternative hypothesis. Instead, we see if we can disprove, or reject the null hypothesis.

If we reject the null hypothesis, this doesn’t mean that our alternative hypothesis is correct but does support the alternative/experimental hypothesis.

Upon analysis of the results, an alternative hypothesis can be rejected or supported, but it can never be proven to be correct. We must avoid any reference to results proving a theory as this implies 100% certainty, and there is always a chance that evidence may exist which could refute a theory.

How to Write a Hypothesis

  • Identify variables . The researcher manipulates the independent variable and the dependent variable is the measured outcome.
  • Operationalized the variables being investigated . Operationalization of a hypothesis refers to the process of making the variables physically measurable or testable, e.g. if you are about to study aggression, you might count the number of punches given by participants.
  • Decide on a direction for your prediction . If there is evidence in the literature to support a specific effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable, write a directional (one-tailed) hypothesis. If there are limited or ambiguous findings in the literature regarding the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable, write a non-directional (two-tailed) hypothesis.
  • Make it Testable : Ensure your hypothesis can be tested through experimentation or observation. It should be possible to prove it false (principle of falsifiability).
  • Clear & concise language . A strong hypothesis is concise (typically one to two sentences long), and formulated using clear and straightforward language, ensuring it’s easily understood and testable.

Consider a hypothesis many teachers might subscribe to: students work better on Monday morning than on Friday afternoon (IV=Day, DV= Standard of work).

Now, if we decide to study this by giving the same group of students a lesson on a Monday morning and a Friday afternoon and then measuring their immediate recall of the material covered in each session, we would end up with the following:

  • The alternative hypothesis states that students will recall significantly more information on a Monday morning than on a Friday afternoon.
  • The null hypothesis states that there will be no significant difference in the amount recalled on a Monday morning compared to a Friday afternoon. Any difference will be due to chance or confounding factors.

More Examples

  • Memory : Participants exposed to classical music during study sessions will recall more items from a list than those who studied in silence.
  • Social Psychology : Individuals who frequently engage in social media use will report higher levels of perceived social isolation compared to those who use it infrequently.
  • Developmental Psychology : Children who engage in regular imaginative play have better problem-solving skills than those who don’t.
  • Clinical Psychology : Cognitive-behavioral therapy will be more effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety over a 6-month period compared to traditional talk therapy.
  • Cognitive Psychology : Individuals who multitask between various electronic devices will have shorter attention spans on focused tasks than those who single-task.
  • Health Psychology : Patients who practice mindfulness meditation will experience lower levels of chronic pain compared to those who don’t meditate.
  • Organizational Psychology : Employees in open-plan offices will report higher levels of stress than those in private offices.
  • Behavioral Psychology : Rats rewarded with food after pressing a lever will press it more frequently than rats who receive no reward.

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Home » What is a Hypothesis – Types, Examples and Writing Guide

What is a Hypothesis – Types, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

What is a Hypothesis

Definition:

Hypothesis is an educated guess or proposed explanation for a phenomenon, based on some initial observations or data. It is a tentative statement that can be tested and potentially proven or disproven through further investigation and experimentation.

Hypothesis is often used in scientific research to guide the design of experiments and the collection and analysis of data. It is an essential element of the scientific method, as it allows researchers to make predictions about the outcome of their experiments and to test those predictions to determine their accuracy.

Types of Hypothesis

Types of Hypothesis are as follows:

Research Hypothesis

A research hypothesis is a statement that predicts a relationship between variables. It is usually formulated as a specific statement that can be tested through research, and it is often used in scientific research to guide the design of experiments.

Null Hypothesis

The null hypothesis is a statement that assumes there is no significant difference or relationship between variables. It is often used as a starting point for testing the research hypothesis, and if the results of the study reject the null hypothesis, it suggests that there is a significant difference or relationship between variables.

Alternative Hypothesis

An alternative hypothesis is a statement that assumes there is a significant difference or relationship between variables. It is often used as an alternative to the null hypothesis and is tested against the null hypothesis to determine which statement is more accurate.

Directional Hypothesis

A directional hypothesis is a statement that predicts the direction of the relationship between variables. For example, a researcher might predict that increasing the amount of exercise will result in a decrease in body weight.

Non-directional Hypothesis

A non-directional hypothesis is a statement that predicts the relationship between variables but does not specify the direction. For example, a researcher might predict that there is a relationship between the amount of exercise and body weight, but they do not specify whether increasing or decreasing exercise will affect body weight.

Statistical Hypothesis

A statistical hypothesis is a statement that assumes a particular statistical model or distribution for the data. It is often used in statistical analysis to test the significance of a particular result.

Composite Hypothesis

A composite hypothesis is a statement that assumes more than one condition or outcome. It can be divided into several sub-hypotheses, each of which represents a different possible outcome.

Empirical Hypothesis

An empirical hypothesis is a statement that is based on observed phenomena or data. It is often used in scientific research to develop theories or models that explain the observed phenomena.

Simple Hypothesis

A simple hypothesis is a statement that assumes only one outcome or condition. It is often used in scientific research to test a single variable or factor.

Complex Hypothesis

A complex hypothesis is a statement that assumes multiple outcomes or conditions. It is often used in scientific research to test the effects of multiple variables or factors on a particular outcome.

Applications of Hypothesis

Hypotheses are used in various fields to guide research and make predictions about the outcomes of experiments or observations. Here are some examples of how hypotheses are applied in different fields:

  • Science : In scientific research, hypotheses are used to test the validity of theories and models that explain natural phenomena. For example, a hypothesis might be formulated to test the effects of a particular variable on a natural system, such as the effects of climate change on an ecosystem.
  • Medicine : In medical research, hypotheses are used to test the effectiveness of treatments and therapies for specific conditions. For example, a hypothesis might be formulated to test the effects of a new drug on a particular disease.
  • Psychology : In psychology, hypotheses are used to test theories and models of human behavior and cognition. For example, a hypothesis might be formulated to test the effects of a particular stimulus on the brain or behavior.
  • Sociology : In sociology, hypotheses are used to test theories and models of social phenomena, such as the effects of social structures or institutions on human behavior. For example, a hypothesis might be formulated to test the effects of income inequality on crime rates.
  • Business : In business research, hypotheses are used to test the validity of theories and models that explain business phenomena, such as consumer behavior or market trends. For example, a hypothesis might be formulated to test the effects of a new marketing campaign on consumer buying behavior.
  • Engineering : In engineering, hypotheses are used to test the effectiveness of new technologies or designs. For example, a hypothesis might be formulated to test the efficiency of a new solar panel design.

How to write a Hypothesis

Here are the steps to follow when writing a hypothesis:

Identify the Research Question

The first step is to identify the research question that you want to answer through your study. This question should be clear, specific, and focused. It should be something that can be investigated empirically and that has some relevance or significance in the field.

Conduct a Literature Review

Before writing your hypothesis, it’s essential to conduct a thorough literature review to understand what is already known about the topic. This will help you to identify the research gap and formulate a hypothesis that builds on existing knowledge.

Determine the Variables

The next step is to identify the variables involved in the research question. A variable is any characteristic or factor that can vary or change. There are two types of variables: independent and dependent. The independent variable is the one that is manipulated or changed by the researcher, while the dependent variable is the one that is measured or observed as a result of the independent variable.

Formulate the Hypothesis

Based on the research question and the variables involved, you can now formulate your hypothesis. A hypothesis should be a clear and concise statement that predicts the relationship between the variables. It should be testable through empirical research and based on existing theory or evidence.

Write the Null Hypothesis

The null hypothesis is the opposite of the alternative hypothesis, which is the hypothesis that you are testing. The null hypothesis states that there is no significant difference or relationship between the variables. It is important to write the null hypothesis because it allows you to compare your results with what would be expected by chance.

Refine the Hypothesis

After formulating the hypothesis, it’s important to refine it and make it more precise. This may involve clarifying the variables, specifying the direction of the relationship, or making the hypothesis more testable.

Examples of Hypothesis

Here are a few examples of hypotheses in different fields:

  • Psychology : “Increased exposure to violent video games leads to increased aggressive behavior in adolescents.”
  • Biology : “Higher levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere will lead to increased plant growth.”
  • Sociology : “Individuals who grow up in households with higher socioeconomic status will have higher levels of education and income as adults.”
  • Education : “Implementing a new teaching method will result in higher student achievement scores.”
  • Marketing : “Customers who receive a personalized email will be more likely to make a purchase than those who receive a generic email.”
  • Physics : “An increase in temperature will cause an increase in the volume of a gas, assuming all other variables remain constant.”
  • Medicine : “Consuming a diet high in saturated fats will increase the risk of developing heart disease.”

Purpose of Hypothesis

The purpose of a hypothesis is to provide a testable explanation for an observed phenomenon or a prediction of a future outcome based on existing knowledge or theories. A hypothesis is an essential part of the scientific method and helps to guide the research process by providing a clear focus for investigation. It enables scientists to design experiments or studies to gather evidence and data that can support or refute the proposed explanation or prediction.

The formulation of a hypothesis is based on existing knowledge, observations, and theories, and it should be specific, testable, and falsifiable. A specific hypothesis helps to define the research question, which is important in the research process as it guides the selection of an appropriate research design and methodology. Testability of the hypothesis means that it can be proven or disproven through empirical data collection and analysis. Falsifiability means that the hypothesis should be formulated in such a way that it can be proven wrong if it is incorrect.

In addition to guiding the research process, the testing of hypotheses can lead to new discoveries and advancements in scientific knowledge. When a hypothesis is supported by the data, it can be used to develop new theories or models to explain the observed phenomenon. When a hypothesis is not supported by the data, it can help to refine existing theories or prompt the development of new hypotheses to explain the phenomenon.

When to use Hypothesis

Here are some common situations in which hypotheses are used:

  • In scientific research , hypotheses are used to guide the design of experiments and to help researchers make predictions about the outcomes of those experiments.
  • In social science research , hypotheses are used to test theories about human behavior, social relationships, and other phenomena.
  • I n business , hypotheses can be used to guide decisions about marketing, product development, and other areas. For example, a hypothesis might be that a new product will sell well in a particular market, and this hypothesis can be tested through market research.

Characteristics of Hypothesis

Here are some common characteristics of a hypothesis:

  • Testable : A hypothesis must be able to be tested through observation or experimentation. This means that it must be possible to collect data that will either support or refute the hypothesis.
  • Falsifiable : A hypothesis must be able to be proven false if it is not supported by the data. If a hypothesis cannot be falsified, then it is not a scientific hypothesis.
  • Clear and concise : A hypothesis should be stated in a clear and concise manner so that it can be easily understood and tested.
  • Based on existing knowledge : A hypothesis should be based on existing knowledge and research in the field. It should not be based on personal beliefs or opinions.
  • Specific : A hypothesis should be specific in terms of the variables being tested and the predicted outcome. This will help to ensure that the research is focused and well-designed.
  • Tentative: A hypothesis is a tentative statement or assumption that requires further testing and evidence to be confirmed or refuted. It is not a final conclusion or assertion.
  • Relevant : A hypothesis should be relevant to the research question or problem being studied. It should address a gap in knowledge or provide a new perspective on the issue.

Advantages of Hypothesis

Hypotheses have several advantages in scientific research and experimentation:

  • Guides research: A hypothesis provides a clear and specific direction for research. It helps to focus the research question, select appropriate methods and variables, and interpret the results.
  • Predictive powe r: A hypothesis makes predictions about the outcome of research, which can be tested through experimentation. This allows researchers to evaluate the validity of the hypothesis and make new discoveries.
  • Facilitates communication: A hypothesis provides a common language and framework for scientists to communicate with one another about their research. This helps to facilitate the exchange of ideas and promotes collaboration.
  • Efficient use of resources: A hypothesis helps researchers to use their time, resources, and funding efficiently by directing them towards specific research questions and methods that are most likely to yield results.
  • Provides a basis for further research: A hypothesis that is supported by data provides a basis for further research and exploration. It can lead to new hypotheses, theories, and discoveries.
  • Increases objectivity: A hypothesis can help to increase objectivity in research by providing a clear and specific framework for testing and interpreting results. This can reduce bias and increase the reliability of research findings.

Limitations of Hypothesis

Some Limitations of the Hypothesis are as follows:

  • Limited to observable phenomena: Hypotheses are limited to observable phenomena and cannot account for unobservable or intangible factors. This means that some research questions may not be amenable to hypothesis testing.
  • May be inaccurate or incomplete: Hypotheses are based on existing knowledge and research, which may be incomplete or inaccurate. This can lead to flawed hypotheses and erroneous conclusions.
  • May be biased: Hypotheses may be biased by the researcher’s own beliefs, values, or assumptions. This can lead to selective interpretation of data and a lack of objectivity in research.
  • Cannot prove causation: A hypothesis can only show a correlation between variables, but it cannot prove causation. This requires further experimentation and analysis.
  • Limited to specific contexts: Hypotheses are limited to specific contexts and may not be generalizable to other situations or populations. This means that results may not be applicable in other contexts or may require further testing.
  • May be affected by chance : Hypotheses may be affected by chance or random variation, which can obscure or distort the true relationship between variables.

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  • / Professionals
  • / Risk assessment
  • / The STEPWISE Approach
  • / Step One: Hypothesise

Step One: Hypothesise

The word hypothesis has its origins in ancient Greek and means ' a proposed explanation for a phenomenon' (Wikipedia - online dictionary). In modern day usage, a hypothesis is a provisional idea or explanation which has to be evaluated or tested. The idea needs to be either confirmed or disproved. The hypothesis should be 'falsifiable', which means it is possible for it to be shown to be false, usually by observation. Even if confirmed, the hypothesis is not necessarily proven, but remains provisional.

Hypothesising is a core activity within social work assessment. Holland (2004) states:

"The cornerstone of analysis in assessment work might be seen as the process of building hypotheses for understanding a family situation and developing these until they include a plan for the way forward ."

This process of building, testing out and discarding hypotheses starts at the earliest point of contact. As soon as a referral is received into a social work team the practitioner will begin consciously or unconsciously to form some hypotheses of what is happening within the family. They would certainly check out some of their hypotheses during an initial conversation with the referrer and may even ditch one or more of them at this stage. The formation of various hypotheses and the decision taken about the steps needed to investigate the matter further will be influenced by a range of factors, for example: practice wisdom, personal values, and formal knowledge.

Munro highlights the fact that " The single most important factor in minimizing errors (in child protection practice) is to admit that you may be wrong" (Munro 2008: 125).

In risk assessment Raynes in Calder and others (2003) suggests that workers often remain narrowly focused on proving or disproving whether the original risk or perception about a family remains and fail to consider the broader picture, or alternative hypotheses about what is happening and why. Practitioners should therefore consider all the possibilities about what is happening and address each hypothesis, only discarding it when there is clear evidence to do so.

Stepwise requires that this is considered as part of a structured approach and that forming, testing out and discarding hypotheses needs to be a clear and recorded part of any assessment process.

The practitioner should record the possible hypotheses to which they are working and this needs to be done in a way that shows a) it's only a hypothesis not a conclusion, and b) that it's a reasonable hypothesis based on information to hand at that time (including research info) in order to avoid any later suggestion of bias/premature judgement. Planning the nature and source of information to be collected, should enable practitioners and managers to test out all possible hypotheses in the analysis stage, to prove or disprove the likelihood of one of them being the case in this situation. This will require use of the analysis models underpinning this framework.

In essence, at this step, practitioners should be asking:  "What are we worried about? What is the possible danger or harm to the child?" If our hypotheses are correct, what needs to happen?"

Where hypotheses relate to actual or likely abuse of a child, the child protection procedures must be followed, and the assessment planned as part of a strategy discussion or meeting.

Quick links

  • Discuss with the person
  • Discuss with your manager
  • Advice if you are unsure
  • Sharing information
  • Working with children and families
  • Immediate action
  • Strategy discussion
  • Child protection investigation
  • Medical examinations
  • Initial child protection case conference
  • Conference agenda
  • Involvement of parents and carers - at conference
  • Involvement of children at conference
  • Core Assessment
  • Looked After Children
  • Missing Children
  • Children Moving Away from Guernsey
  • Child Death Review
  • Child's Voice
  • Injuries to non-mobile babies and children
  • Interpreters

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  1. Hypothesis Lesson for Kids: Definition & Examples

    Problem 1. a) There is a positive relationship between the length of a pendulum and the period of the pendulum. This is a prediction that can be tested by various experiments. Problem 2. c) Diets ...

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    A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for some event or problem. Cardinal Bellarmine gave a well known example of the older sense of the word in his warning to Galileo in the early 17th century: that he must not treat the motion of the Earth as a reality, but merely as a hypothesis. Today, a hypothesis refers to an idea that needs to be tested.

  6. Hypothesis For Kids

    Step 8: Test the Hypothesis This is the fun part! Plan an experiment or set of observations to test the hypothesis. Whether the hypothesis is proven correct or not, the experience provides a learning opportunity. Tips for Writing Hypothesis for Kids. Encourage Curiosity: Always encourage your child to ask questions about the world around them ...

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    hypothesis: [noun] an assumption or concession made for the sake of argument. an interpretation of a practical situation or condition taken as the ground for action.

  8. science fair project

    An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes. You could put sit and watch the ice cube melt and think you've proved a hypothesis. But you will have missed some important steps. For a good science fair project you need to do quite a bit of research before any experimenting. Start by finding some information about how and why water melts.

  9. Writing a hypothesis and prediction

    A hypothesis is an idea about how something works that can be tested using experiments. A prediction says what will happen in an experiment if the hypothesis is correct. Presenter 1: We are going ...

  10. Hypothesis: Definition, Examples, and Types

    A hypothesis is a tentative statement about the relationship between two or more variables. It is a specific, testable prediction about what you expect to happen in a study. It is a preliminary answer to your question that helps guide the research process. Consider a study designed to examine the relationship between sleep deprivation and test ...

  11. Hypothesis

    hypothesis, something supposed or taken for granted, with the object of following out its consequences (Greek hypothesis, "a putting under," the Latin equivalent being suppositio ). Discussion with Kara Rogers of how the scientific model is used to test a hypothesis or represent a theory. Kara Rogers, senior biomedical sciences editor of ...

  12. HYPOTHESIS

    HYPOTHESIS definition: a suggested explanation for something that has not yet been proved to be true. Learn more.

  13. Hypothesis

    hypothesis: 1 n a tentative insight into the natural world; a concept that is not yet verified but that if true would explain certain facts or phenomena "a scientific hypothesis that survives experimental testing becomes a scientific theory" Synonyms: possibility , theory Types: show 17 types... hide 17 types... hypothetical a hypothetical ...

  14. hypothesis noun

    The hypothesis predicts that children will perform better on task A than on task B. The results confirmed his hypothesis on the use of modal verbs. These observations appear to support our working hypothesis. a speculative hypothesis concerning the nature of matter; an interesting hypothesis about the development of language

  15. Hypothesis Facts for Kids

    A proposition (or hypothesis) that two events are related cannot be tested in the same way as a law of nature can be tested. An example would be to see if some drug is effective to treat a given medical condition. Even if there is a strong correlation that indicates that this is the case, some samples would still not fit the hypothesis.

  16. Hypothesizing: How Toddlers Use Scientific Thinking to Learn

    9 June, 2020 by BabySparks in Cognitive. Hypothesizing is the scientific term for an educated guess. The process of forming a hypothesis based on what you already know is something children continue to refine as they get older. But babies and toddlers learn to observe and take in information as they play, learning to predict what might happen ...

  17. Research Hypothesis In Psychology: Types, & Examples

    A research hypothesis, in its plural form "hypotheses," is a specific, testable prediction about the anticipated results of a study, established at its outset. It is a key component of the scientific method. Hypotheses connect theory to data and guide the research process towards expanding scientific understanding.

  18. Scientific hypothesis

    scientific hypothesis, an idea that proposes a tentative explanation about a phenomenon or a narrow set of phenomena observed in the natural world.The two primary features of a scientific hypothesis are falsifiability and testability, which are reflected in an "If…then" statement summarizing the idea and in the ability to be supported or refuted through observation and experimentation.

  19. What is a Hypothesis

    Definition: Hypothesis is an educated guess or proposed explanation for a phenomenon, based on some initial observations or data. It is a tentative statement that can be tested and potentially proven or disproven through further investigation and experimentation. Hypothesis is often used in scientific research to guide the design of experiments ...

  20. Null & Alternative Hypotheses

    The alternative hypothesis (H a) is the other answer to your research question. It claims that there's an effect in the population. Often, your alternative hypothesis is the same as your research hypothesis. In other words, it's the claim that you expect or hope will be true. The alternative hypothesis is the complement to the null hypothesis.

  21. Critical Period in Brain Development: Definition, Importance

    The Early Years of a Child's Life . Once the baby is born, the brain kicks into high gear. The early years of a child's life, from birth to around the age of five, are generally considered the core of the critical period. The brain is incredibly absorbent during these years, taking in information rapidly.

  22. Step One: Hypothesise

    Step One: Hypothesise. The word hypothesis has its origins in ancient Greek and means ' a proposed explanation for a phenomenon' (Wikipedia - online dictionary). In modern day usage, a hypothesis is a provisional idea or explanation which has to be evaluated or tested. The idea needs to be either confirmed or disproved.