**Science is the application of evidence to form experiments** that can predict or explain phenomena in the natural environment. The information gained from experimentation can help us better understand the processes occurring in the natural world.

Hypotheses are important because it will help us focus on which variable to control in an experiment. The hypothesis will frame an explanation on what can come about from more in depth research and experimentation.

An example of a hypothesis is that keeping milk out at warmer temperatures will make milk spoil faster. In a controlled experiment, we will only manipulate one variable: temperature. We can then see if milk will be affected in hotter vs cooler temperatures.

A theory has been tested several times for reliability in order to provide scientific explanations to natural phenomena. The foundation of a theory is based on well-supported hypotheses which have been tested by scientists in order to make more accurate predictions of observations in nature.

Hypotheses usually occur during the beginning stages of an experiment in which an investigator will try to provide a possible explanation for phenomena which he/she will test. Hypotheses which have been verified for their reliability can become part of a theory.

When we observe the slice of bread, one side may be faced down on a surface while the other side (the one where there is mold growth) is exposed to the environment.

We can hypothesize as follows: Bread which is exposed to the air is more susceptible to mold spores compared to the side facing a surface.

First we will identify the independent variable: temperature

The dependent variable is goldfish behavior and activity.

We can then form a hypothesis based on previous knowledge, observations, and research that goldfish prefer a water environment which ranges from room temperature to cooler temperatures. The hypothesis will be goldfish will not be as active in hotter temperatures than cooler temperatures.

When designing the experiment, we only want to change water temperature and keep everything else constant to ensure that no other variables will affect the outcomes. In this case, we will use the same size fish bowl and equal amounts of water. We will then see if temperature does play a role in a goldfish’s behavior.

The experimental groups are the goldfish placed in hotter and colder temperatures and the control groups will be placed in a water temperature where goldfish usually live in.